HC Deb 26 February 1941 vol 369 cc525-6
74. Mr. Horabin

asked the Home Secretary what is the daily allowance for expenses paid to Regional and Deputy Regional Commissioners not in receipt of salary; what is the total amount paid to these persons since the outbreak of war; and whether he will publish a statement of expenses?

72. Mr. McGovern

asked the Home Secretary what are the names of the Commissioners for Civil Defence and their Deputies for each area; the salaries paid in each case; and the amount of expenses in each case, respectively, from 3rd September, 1939, to 1st February, 1941?

Mr. Mabane

As regards the names and salaries of the Regional Commissioners and Deputy Regional Commissioners, I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Lincoln (Mr. Liddall) on 5th February. The expenses incurred by Regional Commissioners and Deputy Regional Commissioners are not paid where claimed by way of daily allowance but are paid against vouchers that they represent sums actually spent I £n carrying out the duties. The total amount so paid since the outbreak of war is about £7,300, but my right hon. Friend sees no point in publishing a statement of expenses.

Mr. Mabane

Would these Regional Commissioners be entitled to speak in the House on the subject of their work?

Mr. Maxton

What is the point in not publishing a statement?

Mr. Mabane

Some of these gentlemen perform their duties without salary and some with salary. In the past, the view has been taken that to publish any statement would not be necessary.

Sir H Morris-Jones

What is the reason for all this secrecy? Is not the House entitled to know what are the salaries and expenditure of these gentlemen, as is the case with other public servants?

Mr. Mabane

My hon. Friend will find particulars in the answer to which I have referred.

Mr. Granville

Is there any limit to these expenses?

Mr. Mabane

I regret that I have nothing to add to my answer.