HC Deb 01 October 1942 vol 383 cc929-30
58. Major Lyons

asked the Minister of Health whether his attention has been called to a case at Maidenhead, on nth September, when a charge of false pretences was preferred against the warden of the local authority's hostel for boys and to his previous record as then disclosed; when, and by whom, and upon what investigation or reference this appointment as warden was made; and what steps are proposed to ensure different and closer scrutiny and examination in respect of any such appointment so as to avoid any similar future incident?

Mr. E. Brown

Yes, Sir. I am informed that the appointment was made in April by the Evacuation Committee of the Maidenhead Borough Council, after interviewing the candidate who was at the time employed with his wife in a responsible position in a well-known residential charitable institution. I have already informed local authorities that particulars of persons to be appointed as wardens to hostels should be submitted to my senior regional officers, and they are well aware that my regional staff are ready to give advice and assistance in the search for suitable applicants. The regional staff have now been consulted by the local authority in making appointments to fill the vacancies at the hostel to which the Question refers.

Major Lyons

In view of what must have been the spurious representations made on behalf of this candidate, which were accepted, have appropriate steps been taken for the future?

Mr. Brown

Yes, Sir.