§ 53. Sir A. POWNALLasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he can announce the decision of the Government with regard to the recommendation of the Royal Commission on the Civil Service on the subject of consolidation of pay?
§ Mr. P. SNOWDENNo, Sir. The matter is now under consideration.
§ Sir A. POWNALLIs not the delay caused by a promise of the right hon. Gentleman to see the staff side before deciding, and, if so, when will the conference be held?
§ Mr. SNOWDENThere has been no delay. This report was received only three or four days ago, and hon. Members seem to give the Government credit for an expedition in dealing with these matters which I do not think they deserve.
§ Sir A. POWNALLSurely, the right hon. Gentleman will say whether he has given a promise to receive a deputation before he comes to a decision, and, if so, when it will be?
§ Mr. PYBUSIs it in order for a member of the Commission to heckle the Chancellor of the Exchequer in this manner?
§ Sir A. POWNALLMay I say, as a matter of personal explanation, that the Royal Commission having reported, I have ceased to be a member of the Commission, and I am perfectly correct in asking questions in the House.