HC Deb 08 May 1951 vol 487 cc1751-2
39. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Minister of Labour whether his attention has been called to the withdrawal of the manager of the Sandbach Employment Exchange from the Arclid Hospital House Committee; and why it is now the general practice of his Department not to allow his officials to serve on such committees.

Mr. Lee

Yes, Sir, I understand this took place over a year ago. No general rule has been laid down about officers of the Department serving on a hospital house committee, but it is the general practice of the Department not to allow members of the staff to accept office on bodies whose functions include the engagement of labour.

Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

Is not this gross interference with the liberty of a subject who wants to serve others in his spare time? Why cannot he do it? Could I have an answer?