§ 04. Sir Richard Glynasked the Prime Minister how the recent vacancy for Chief Press Officer at No. 10, Downing Street arose; and whether the vacancy was made known to other suitable candidates.
§ The Prime MinisterI appointed the man whom I thought could give me the best service in this post, which had been vacant, though covered by temporary arrangements, since February.
§ Sir Richard GlynCan the Prime Minister say what post is now being filled by the former Chief Press Officer? Can the right hon. Gentleman confirm that the normal procedures were followed at every stage of this change-over of Chief Press Officer?
§ The Prime MinisterTo answer the second point first, the normal procedures were followed. I think that it has been long understood that the position of what used to be called Public Relations Adviser to the Prime Minister has been filled on a direct basis by the Prime Minister in terms of who he thought would do the job best. The new Chief Press Officer's predecessor, who held the position temporarily, has now gone to the Ministry of Economic Affairs. The right hon. Gentleman the Leader of the Opposition made it quite clear when the previous appointment was made that it was temporary and would have to be considered again after the election.