HC Deb 04 May 1948 vol 450 cc1098-9
54. Mr. Geoffrey Cooper

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many times the Government Organisation Committee has met since 15th January, 1948; what are the names of the members of this committee; what are their qualifications; and whether a programme has now been drawn up of the investigations it is intended to undertake into the machinery of government.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Since its appointment, the Government Organisation Committee has held three meetings, as a result of which a programme of work on machinery of Government questions has been drawn up and approved by Ministers. Work on this programme is progressing, both through sub-committees and by investigations carried out by the O. and M. Division of the Treasury. The members of the committee are senior civil servants with considerable experience of Government organisation. It would be contrary to practice to give their names.

Mr. Cooper

Does not my right hon. Friend agree that, in view of the tremendous importance of the subject which this Committee is studying, and in view also of the fact that in the departmental replies and in the Report of the Select Committee on Estimates which inquired into the matter and made the recommodations it is suggested that some of the members of this Committee should consist of people other than civil servants, it would be appropriate to give the names and qualifications of those members?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

I do not think I can add to what I have said.

Mr. Granville Sharp

In view of the fact that it has been stated that this Committee would meet frequently, will my right hon. Friend give a definition of "frequently"?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

It is the ordinary dictionary definition—often.