§ 57. Mr. Bellengerasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the advanced age of the divisional food controllers for the midland and north-east Scotland areas, and the arduous duties which are likely to fall upon these officers in the event of an emergency, he will consider replacing these two gentleman with others more able to bear the burden of heavy administrative responsibility?
§ Mr. StanleyThe two officers to whom the hon. Member refers have special experience of work of this character in relation to their areas. I can assure the hon. Member that the physical fitness of divisional food officers to undertake the duties which would be entrusted to them in time of war is constantly borne in mind.
§ Mr. BellengerDoes not the right hon. Gentleman consider that the age of 73 for appointments of this kind rather limits the possibilities of the activity of such individuals in the stress and strain of warfare?
§ Mr. StanleyIt is obvious that appointments of this character cannot be continued indefinitely, but these particular gentlemen have held these posts for a considerable time and have a valuable experience of local conditions.