HC Deb 01 November 1939 vol 352 cc1919-20
39. Miss Ward

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information the names of the nucleus staff who were responsible for the appointment of the staff of the Ministry and who were not on the list submitted to the Lord Privy Seal for approval?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Information (Sir Edward Grigg)

The nucleus staff, who among other duties designated persons to fill posts in the Ministry of Information, other than the higher posts, consisted of Lord Perth, Mr. A. P. Waterfield, First Civil Service Commissioner, Mr. D. B. Woodburn and Mr. H. V. Rhodes of the Customs and Excise Department, with the assistance of Mr. I. S. Macadam, at that time Secretary of the Royal Institute of International Affairs, and a number of other gentlemen who gave their assistance on a part-time basis.

Miss Ward

Could we have the names of the other gentlemen who kindly gave their assistance on a part-time basis?

Sir E. Grigg

If the hon. Lady will put down that question I shall be glad to answer it.

Sir Archibald Sinclair

Surely it cannot be said that these officials are responsible for the appointment of the staff? The responsibility must have been that of the Minister concerned?

Sir E. Grigg

The responsibility is on the Minister concerned, and I have only given the names of the nucleus staff.