HC Deb 21 December 1925 vol 189 cc1981-2W
Mr. MACKINDER

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the fact that the terms of Treasury Circular No. 14/20 relative to privilege holiday at Christmas are not being applied to the civilian clerical staffs in the War Office out-stations offices; and what action he proposes to take to give immediate effect to this authority of the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I understand that the Treasury Circular referred to was primarily designed to regulate the privilege holidays allowed in Headquarter Offices of the Civil Service and that it is not an authority for the extension of the holidays of civilian clerical staffs in War Department out-station offices. I see no sufficient ground for any increase in the holidays already allowed to the War Department clerks.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that, in connection with the rates of remuneration and general conditions of service of the civilian clerical employés in the War. Office out-stations, charges arising out of the failure to apply the terms of a National Whitley Council agreement are being made against the War Office; and whether he will take action in the direction of an investigation of the charges made?

Captain DOUGLAS KING

I am not aware that there has been a failure on the part of the War Office to apply the terms of a National Whitley Council agreement of this description. But I am aware that the application of the scheme of reorganisation of clerical grades in War Departmental out-station offices is giving rise to some dissatisfaction, and my right hon. Friend has consented to receive a deputation on the subject.

Sir F. SYKES

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will state the present estimated annual cost of headquarters staff engaged on each of the following duties: education, medical, chaplains, administration of food, clothing and general stores, administration of technical stores, transport, staff duties, military personnel administration, martial law, civil personnel administration, legal services, contracts, finance, accounting and audit, inspection, recruiting, lands, buildings, and works, secretarial, and messengers, porters, and cleaners?

Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANS

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to the very full details given in the published Army Estimates for 1925–26.