HC Deb 05 December 1951 vol 494 cc2380-1
37. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what progress is being made in the appointment of a chief factory inspector in Singapore; how long it is since the post was first advertised; how many applications have been received; and what are the qualifications required and the salary offered.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The salary is £1,463 to £1,582 a year plus cost of living allowance and the qualifications are those of an experienced factory inspector in this country. The vacancy was notified in June. A candidate who was interviewed later withdrew but a few more have now come forward.

Mr. Awbery

Is the reason for the delay in the appointment the high standard of qualifications required or the low salary offered?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

In bearing in mind questions of salary we have to consider the effect on a large number of other people doing equally important jobs in Singapore and elsewhere. With regard to qualifications, I think we certainly need very high qualifications for a highly important task of this kind, but we are still hopeful of filling the vacancy.

Mr. Awbery

Would the right hon. Gentleman say what are the qualifications required?