§ 53. Mr. Kennedyasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware of existing dissatisfaction in Scotland with the methods of examination of recruits to the junior administrative grade of the Civil Service; that, in the viva voce tests particularly, undue preference is being given to Oxford and Cambridge graduates; that the marks assigned under those tests operate to the disadvantage of graduates from other universities; and if he will take action to ensure impartial examination and assignment of marks?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleI am not aware of any general dissatisfaction in Scotland with the methods of examination for the administrative class. I am assured that there is no justification for the suggestion 1036 that in the conduct of the viva voce test there is any prejudice in favour of Oxford and Cambridge graduates or that the tests applied operate to the disadvantage of graduates from other universities.
§ Mr. KennedyWould not the right hon. and gallant Gentleman regard a written test, which would be completely free from any suggestion of national prejudice, as a fairer process of appointment than the viva voce test?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleNo, Sir. I do not think that in this career, or in any other, a Scottish accent is any disadvantage.
§ Sir Joseph LambCan the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say how many Scottish University graduates there are in English offices?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleThe Scottish Universities are valuable sources of recruitment, and I should be sorry if the idea got abroad that this is not so.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsIs it the case that freedom from national prejudice means that only Scotsmen are appointed?
§ Sir Archibald SinclairAre there any Scotsmen on the board which conducts the viva voce examination?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleI believe so, but I would like notice of the question.