HC Deb 05 November 1946 vol 428 cc1215-6
62. Sir J. Mellor

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer by whom the officials of the National Savings Committee are appointed; by whom the expenses of the committee is paid; to what extent, is the committee responsible to the Treasury; and to what extent is it an independent body.

Mr. Dalton

The National Savings Committee itself is appointed by the Treasury, and consists mainly of voluntary unpaid workers. Its executive staff are civil servants. The committee is part of an independent and voluntary movement, which works in complete harmony with the Government.

Sir J. Mellor

How does the Chancellor reconcile the independence he has described with the first part of his answer?

Mr. Dalton

I do not understand the question.

Sir J. Mellor

Will the Chancellor explain how this committee can be independent when it is appointed and paid by the Treasury, and consists of civil servants?

Mr. Dalton

I should be horrified to think that being paid by the Treasury to do a job would deprive even the hon. Member opposite of his independence of judgment.