HC Deb 20 December 1956 vol 562 c1456
47. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the need particularly of overseas representation, he will consider the appointment of a Minister of State at the Treasury who would be able to relieve the Chancellor of some of his burdens.

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. My right hon. Friend already has the able assistance of the Financial Secretary and the Economic Secretary; and he can, and he does whenever appropriate, depute one of them to represent him at conferences overseas.

Mr. Shepherd

Does my right hon. Friend not consider that the prestige of the Treasury Minister would be enhanced if he had Privy Councillor status?

The Prime Minister

I should like to say that when I was an Under-Secretary I was not unduly bothered about that, and I do not think that the right hon. Gentleman opposite was either.