HC Deb 26 April 1944 vol 399 cc769-70
53. Mr. Mathers

asked the Minister of Food whether he has considered the protest of the West Lothian food control committee regarding the method of filling the recent vacancy for a food executive officer in the county; and whether he has decided upon any change to give more consideration to the views and possible recommendations of voluntary food control committees when such vacancies arise.

The Minister of Food (Colonel Llewellin)

Yes, Sir. Provision is already made for food control committees to submit nominations for food executive officers. I am sorry that for reasons of which I believe my hon. Friend is aware, the committee referred to was not asked whether it had any nomination in this case. I do not consider that any change is needed in the present procedure to which the attention of the divisional food officer concerned has been drawn.

Mr. Mathers

Have there been any cases in which food executive officers have been transferred from one part of the country to another; is the Minister satisfied that the best available appointment was, made in this case, and will he keep in mind Scottish views on this matter?

Colonel Llewellin

I am satisfied, having gone into it, that the best appointment was made in this case. The other point raises a rather wider question but it is certainly the normal practice to invite a recommendation at the same time from the local food committee.