§ Mr. HAYESasked the Minister of Pensions whether it is the practice of his Department to consult the staff side of the Departmental Whitley Council before permitting posts in the established complement carrying basic salaries of £300 per annum and upwards to lapse or to be filled by the appointment of unestablished officers; and whether, and in what circumstances, departures are made from such practice, and if it is intended to follow this procedure in the future?
Lieut.-Colonel STANLEYThe staff side of the Departmental Whitley Council is consulted in regard to the abolition or filling—otherwise than temporarily—of any established posts in those grades in regard to which consultation with the staff side is agreed as a general Civil Service practice. It is not proposed to vary this procedure.