HC Deb 12 July 1955 vol 543 cc1737-8
44. Mr. Rankin

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury when he expects to lay before the House the White Paper containing the salaries of members of the nationalised industries.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Henry Brooke)

A White Paper containing a list of members of public boards of a commercial character, together with salaries, allowances and periods of appointment, is laid before the House annually. The current White Paper was presented last December and dealt with the position as at 1st November, 1954. It is intended to present another in December of this year.

Mr. Rankin

Pending the issue of the White Paper, could the Financial Secretary tell me now what salary is being paid to Lord Balfour of Inchrye, who has recently been appointed a part-time member of British European Airways?

Mr. Brooke

I could not answer that question without notice. All questions relating to British European Airways ought to be put to my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation.

Mr. Rankin

On a point of order. Last week the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation referred me to the hon. Gentleman. To whom do I go now?

Mr. Speaker

That is not a point of order.

Mr. Rankin

Further to that point of order. Surely it is important for hon. Members to know to which Minister Questions should be directed. I have put two Questions on the same issue to two different Ministers and each Minister has denied responsibility. Who is responsible?

Mr. Speaker

I do not know who is responsible. My concern is that it is not a point of order.

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