§ 24. Sir PATRICK FORDasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the reorganisation of the Register House, Edinburgh, on the lines of the recommendations of the Fleming Report, is likely to be effected; and whether, if this is likely to be long delayed, immediate steps will be taken to redress the admitted grievances of the second-grade, clerks employed therein?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Major Sir Archibald Sinclair)In answer to the first part of the question, I would refer my hon. Friend to my reply to a question by the hon. Member for Stirling and Falkirk (Mr. J. Reid) on the 19th instant of which I am sending him a copy. I hope that it will be found possible to deal with the claims of the second class clerks without long delay; but I must not be taken at this stage as admitting that the case of these clerks calls for redress except in so far as changes may be justified in connection with reorganisation.
§ Sir P. FORDIs my right hon. Friend aware that as far back as 12th November, 1930, his predecessor in office referred to the settlement of 1923, and said that any claim arising out of changed conditions would receive careful attention; and does not he think that there has been sufficient time for his office to take steps in the matter?
§ Sir A. SINCLAIRMy hon. Friend will see, if he refers to the answer, of which I am sending him a copy, that such steps are now being taken to effect the necessary reorganisation.
§ Sir P. FORDHow long will it take?