§ 13. Mr. Powellasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what advice he received from Mr. R. Darlington that he is unable to obtain from his Civil Service or security advisers.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesMy special adviser has worked with me since 1972 when I was Opposition Front Bench spokesman on Northern Ireland affairs. Mr. Darlington researched for me on Northern Ireland affairs and still does; he has my papers from Opposition days. He travelled with me in Northern Ireland and knows many people there, particularly in the trade union and Labour movement. His advice is a useful addition to that received from my permanent Civil Service and security advisers which they are so well qualified to give. Mr. Darlington also helps with my non-Departmental 1474 ministerial duties and assists with speech writing and correspondence.
§ Mr. PowellDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that there is general dissatisfaction that amongst his advisers there should be an individual whose salary and terms of service are not disclosed to the public and whose duties and necessity for employment have not been satisfactorily explained by the right hon. Gentleman's reply?
§ Mr. ReesThis young man has worked with me for four years. He is extremely valuable in reminding me of views that I expressed when in opposition—which is always a good thing when in government. He also has one other advantage; he reminds me that I first went to Northern Ireland five years ago. There is always the danger that when an Englishman goes to Northern Ireland and remains there for a short time he will think that he knows all about it. This young man corrects that view for me.