HC Deb 05 May 1932 vol 265 cc1279-80
50. Mr. McENTEE

asked the Lord President of the Council what duties are performed by the private secretaries to the Lord President of the Council for whom an additional charge of £1,000 is made in the Estimates for this year, plus an additional allowance of £700 for clerical assistance for the Lord President; and to what cause the increased volume of work in the Privy Council Office is due?

Mr. BALDWIN

As the hon. Member is no doubt aware, the present occupant of the office of Lord President of the Council is called upon to discharge duties, both in this House and as a Member of His Majesty's Government, which are not ordinarily associated with his office. These additional duties necessarily involve secretarial and clerical assistance in excess of that associated with his Departmental responsibilities.

Mr. McENTEE

In view of the right hon. Gentleman's answer, may I ask if there is any corresponding reduction in the staff of the Prime Minister?

Mr. BALDWIN

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.