HC Deb 21 August 1940 vol 364 cc1295-6
42. Mr. Glenvil Hall

asked the Minister of Information the reason for the resignation of Sir Kenneth Lee; whether a successor has been appointed; and, if so, the duties such successor will perform and the remuneration he will receive?

73. Mr. Lyons

asked the Minister of Information the date upon which Sir Kenneth Lee tendered his resignation and the date when Mr. Frank Pick was selected to succeed him; and, in view of the fact that Sir Kenneth Lee served without remuneration, on what basis the salary was fixed at £2,500 per annum and the subsequent appointment made?

Mr. Cooper

Sir Kenneth Lee offered me his resignation at the time of my taking office. I asked him then to remain as Director-General. Subsequently I came to the conclusion that a change was desirable. His resignation took effect from 7th August. Mr. Frank Pick was appointed to succeed Sir Kenneth Lee on 12th August as Director-General. Subject to the Minister, the Director-General has complete charge of the work of the Ministry. His remuneration of £2,500 a year was fixed by agreement with him.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that this change is worth the extra £2,500 which it is now costing the country?

Mr. Cooper

I am confident that it will be.