HC Deb 01 February 1938 vol 331 cc22-3
51. Mr. Day

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what are the special terms under which the Government cinematograph officer is employed?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Lieut.-Colonel Colville)

There are no special terms attaching to the post of Government Cinematograph Adviser. The officer in question is an established civil servant and is subject to normal service conditions.

Mr. Day

Had this officer had any technical or practical experience of the business before his appointment?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

I believe this officer is giving every satisfaction in his appointment; and he has been doing the work for some years.

Mr. Day

Cannot the Minister answer my question? Is it not a fact that the previous officer in charge of cinematograph work for the Government was an officer of the fire department?

Miss Wilkinson

In view of the very divergent views that are held, may I ask to whom this particular officer is giving satisfaction?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

The Government. The hon. Member for Central Southwark (Mr. Day) did not raise the question of this officer's duties. If he wishes to do so, I can let him have information about them. I can say that in carrying out these duties the officer is giving every satisfaction.

Mr. Day

Is it not a fact that he obtains a proportion of his salary from a percentage of the profits?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

indicated dissent.