HC Deb 16 April 1957 vol 568 cc1730-1
16. Mr. Gibson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a statement on the matter of retirement gratuities to the unestablished staff in the Civil Service; and whether he will make any improvement retrospective at least to the date of the Royal Commission's Report.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Peter Thorneycroft)

I recently received a deputation on this matter from the Staff Side of the Civil Service National Whitley Council. Having considered their representations very carefully, I have told them that I hope before very long to look again at the possibility of improving these gratuities. I can say no more at present.

Mr. Gibson

Does the Chancellor not realise that that is a very unsatisfactory answer? I am sure that he must be aware that the Royal Commission recommended that something should be done for these unestablished staffs in Government service. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a very large number of them and that, in view of the possible changes in Government employment, large numbers of them may become redundant in the next few months? Will he have another look at the matter and at least treat these men, who have given very loyal service to the State for many years, as well as other people have been treated?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I will certainly keep the matter under consideration. In fact, it would require legislation.