HC Deb 18 January 1944 vol 396 cc20-1
72. Mr. Pethick-Lawrence

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the scale of salaries of temporary civil servants is in some cases below that of regular members of the staff; and whether he will consider in such cases increases required to bring the two scales into parity.

Sir. J. Anderson

I am afraid that I could not agree to the wholesale revision suggested by hon. Friend. In some cases temporary civil servants are less valuable to their Departments than permanent civil servants, partly because of their lack of experience, partly because, having been recruited in great numbers and not through the usual national competitions, their average quality is not as high. On the other hand, where appropriate, the rates of pay of temporary civil servants have been brought into line with those of their permanent colleagues; and there are cases in which temporary civil servants are paid at higher rates.

Mr. Woodburn

Is it not a generally accepted principle that a temporary civil servant on equal terms as far as qualities are concerned ought to be paid more since he does not have the advantage of superannuation as well as other advantages?

Sir J. Anderson

There are other differences in the basis of payment, and the complications of implemental scales have to be taken into account.