§ 35. Mr. W. Griffithsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether civil servants suspended under security procedure, and appearing before the Appeal Tribunal, are entitled under his regulations to be accompanied during the hearing by any other person; and whether witnesses will be heard who are prepared to testify to the civil servant's personal integrity and professional ability.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI presume the hon. Member is referring to civil servants appearing before the Three Advisers. The answer to the first part of the Question is "No" and to the second part "Yes."
§ Mr. GriffithsWill the right hon. Gentleman now reconsider the matter in the light of experience and permit civil servants appearing before the Tribunal at least to be accompanied by their trade union representatives?
§ Mr. ButlerThe matter was considered by the late Government and has been reviewed by this Government. We prefer to adhere to the practice I have described in my answer. It is possible for friends themselves to give evidence before the advisers, and to that extent the hon. Member's point is met.