§ 56. Mr. Moelwyn Hughesasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Food whether he is prepared to withdraw the rule enforced by the Ministry that members of local authorities are debarred from being in the service of the Ministry?
§ Mr. MabaneMy Noble Friend has recently reviewed this matter and has decided that the rule must be maintained.
§ Mr. HughesIs the Minister aware that this rule has been dormant for upwards of two years and that it has now been ruthlessly enforced against those who are members of local authorities and loyal servants of the Ministry, although they entered the service of the Ministry at the invitation of the Ministry, who had full knowledge that they were on local authorities when asked to serve?
§ Mr. MabaneI think "ruthlessly enforced" is rather hard. This rule must be maintained. It is extraordinarily difficult if some people are at the same time officers of the Department and members of a local authority. My Noble Friend has given most careful consideration to the matter and has decided that he must maintain the rule.
§ Mr. HughesIs he not prepared to make any exception to this rule?
§ Mr. MabaneI am afraid it would not be possible.
§ Mr. HughesIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the question upon the Adjournment.