HC Deb 02 February 1943 vol 386 cc755-6
60. Mr. W. Brown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how far the limitations applicable to permanent civil servants as regards putting their names, in their private capacity, to public documents affecting Government or social policy, apply to temporary civil servants brought in during the war?

Sir K. Wood

In general, the code of conduct in matters of this kind is the same for all civil servants. Its detailed application to particular cases is a matter for the Minister concerned. There may well be cases where it would not serve the public interest to seek to dissuade those serving in a temporary capacity from giving expression to private opinions which derive from their outside experience or previous activities.

Mr. Brown

Will the Chancellor insist that temporary civil servants should seek permission before appending their names to such documents? I ask because it has emerged in reply to Questions that some have done so without seeking permission?

Sir K. Wood

I think that there is some reason for that, and I will consider it.

61. Mr. Brown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer in how many cases temporary civil servants have been appointed on the basis of drawing no salary but of receiving expenses, which are paid free of Income Tax; and whether he is satisfied that such an arrangement is desirable in the public interest?

Sir K. Wood

Temporary civil servants are appointed by their employing Departments in accordance with general rules laid down by the Treasury. I have no particulars of the number of temporary officers who have been appointed on the basis of receiving only their expenses. Expenses allowances are strictly limited in amount, and I do not consider that this arrangement is contrary to the public interest.

Mr. Brown

Is not the Minister aware that there are some temporary civil servants who have been appointed at something like £750 a year expenses, free of tax, and will he reconsider the reply in the light of the facts?

Sir K. Wood

Perhaps my hon. Friend is not aware that when they are assessed it has to be certified that the officer is spending at least the amount for which he applies in expenses incurred in connection with his appointment.

Mr. Brown

But as a matter of concrete reality is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these payments of expenses which are not subject to tax are taking the place of ordinary salary and emoluments, and I ask whether that is in the public interest?

Sir K. Wood

There is something in what my hon. Friend says, but from the Treasury point of view in the great majority of cases it may amount to a considerable saving.