HC Deb 23 February 1943 vol 387 cc7-8
46. Mr. W. Brown

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that during the annual leave year 1941–42 the Comptroller-General of the Department of Overseas Trade was allowed 44 days' annual leave; whether the instructions issued to Departments from His Majesty's Treasury, relating to the restriction of annual leave to civil servants in war-time, are of general application or exclude members of particular grades; and, if the former, what steps he proposes to take in regard to the failure of the Department of Overseas Trade to give effect to these instructions?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Stourbridge (Mr. Morgan) on 26th January. The instructions issued to Departments from the Treasury relating to the restriction of annual leave are of general application and do not exclude members of any grades; but Departments may, and very exceptionally do, allow some additional leave where they are satisfied that it is in the public interest to do so.

Mr. Brown

Is the Chancellor satisfied that in the case which gave rise to the Question discretion was exercised by the Department?

Sir K. Wood

I think so. I understand my right hon. Friend explained that the leave was given because the gentleman in question needed medical treatment because of concussion due to enemy action.

Mr. Brown

Does not the right hon. Gentleman understand that there is a distinction in practice between annual leave and sick leave, and that this Question refers to the grant of 44 days' annual leave?

Sir K. Wood

I appreciate that.