§ 1. Sir R. Perkinsasked the Minister of Fuel and Power whether he is aware that electricity boards ask applicants for such posts as that of meter reader/collector for their political and religious views; and, in view of the fact that applicants feel that the wrong answer may prejudice their application, whether he will give a general direction to the Authority that questions of this kind should cease.
§ The Minister of Fuel and Power (Mr. Geoffrey Lloyd)I agree that such questions are liable to lead to misunderstanding and are best avoided, but I have no reason to suppose that they are commonly asked. The methods adopted by boards in interviewing prospective employees are their own managerial responsibility, and a general direction on this subject would not be appropriate or necessary, but I am taking steps to see that my views are fully understood by the boards.
§ Sir R. PerkinsIs the Minister aware that when a Mr. Stephens of Stroud 3 applied for a post with the Midland Electricity Board, he and all the other applicants were asked their political and religious beliefs? After investigating this case, will not the Minister reconsider his decision and issue an instruction to the three boards for which he is responsible suggesting that this undesirable practice should cease at once?
§ Mr. LloydAs I said, I do not think that this is a matter which it is appropriate to deal with by a general direction, but I am taking steps to see that my views are fully understood by the boards.