HC Deb 26 January 1943 vol 386 cc342-3
13. Sir H. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade why no opportunity was given for any selection from ex-Service men or others when a recent appointment was made by the North Midland Regional Factory Premises Controller?

Mr. Dalton

The Ministry of Labour, through whom appointments of this kind are made, were notified of the vacancy in question. In view of the urgency of filling the post and the difficulties of recruitment in the Nottingham area, my Department suggested, as a possible candidate, a person resident in Nottingham who had been recommended by the Regional Factory Controller. As my hon. Friend the Member for Rugby (Mr. W. Brown) was informed on 17th December, this person applied for the post through the Ministry of Labour, was appointed on probation and is carrying out his duties satisfactorily.

Sir H. Williams

Is it not the case that this man was a lodger in the premises of the Factory Premises Controller, that he arranged the appointment, and that after the appointment was arranged it was registered by the Ministry of Labour? Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire again into this rather disgraceful case?

Mr. Dalton

I do not think that the facts are as stated by my hon. Friend.

Sir H. Williams

Has not the right hon. Gentleman made inquiries as to whether they are?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir, and a Question on the subject was put to the Minister of Labour, who has already given the hon. Member the assurance that he would look into it as far as he was concerned.

Mr. William Brown

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that even in a somewhat case-hardened Civil Service this particular appointment is regarded as one of the worst cases of nepotism and patronage which has yet occurred, even in his Department, and will he go into this personally and invoke my assistance if necessary?

Mr. Dalton

I am much obliged for the offer, and will consider it if necessary.

Mr. Austin Hopkinson

Will the right hon. Gentleman accept a similar offer on the same terms from me?