§ 55. Sir P. Hannonasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether depart mental staffs in the various Ministries in London are kept at their posts over week ends; whether this duty is being observed throughout the civil establishments; and whether the staffs of all Government offices are being impressed with the need of giving all their energy, regardless of pre-war regulations, to the task of winning the war?
§ Captain CrookshankIn the case of all Departments closely linked with the war effort staffs are on duty over week-ends. As regards the last part of the Question, the Civil Service, through the Staff Side of the National Whitley Council, have voluntarily offered to work whatever additional hours may be necessary and to waive normal conditions of employment. I feel sure that the House will wish to be associated with the Government in expressing their appreciation of this approach: arrangements have already been made to take full advantage of it.
§ Sir P. HannonDoes not that answer dispose, once and for all, of libelous statements about the apathy of civil servants in giving their services in connection with the conduct of the war?
§ Captain CrookshankI certainly hope so.