HC Deb 17 October 1946 vol 427 cc251-2W
101. Mr. Osborne

asked the Minister of National Insurance why, in view of the fact that 32,000 clerks will be needed to work the new insurance Act, permission has been refused to ex-Servicemen now administering Government scheme 266/T or serving on Public Assistance staffs to apply for these positions.

Mr. J. Griffiths

The staff of my Department to work the new National Insurance Scheme will be built up gradually over a considerable period. My first obligation in recruiting from outside the Department is towards the staffs of approved societies whose employment will cease under the new arrangements. The question of providing opportunities in the State service for officers of local authorities must be looked at primarily in relation to measures for the transfer to the State of Poor Law and other functions from local authorities. My right hon. Friends and I have the matter fully in mind, and I can assure hon. Members that the position of these officers will not be overlooked.

Mr. Hardy

asked the Minister of National Insurance whether he is now in a position to offer public assistance staffs who are likely to be redundant in the near future, appointments on his staff; and if he will give details as to the remuneration, conditions, etc., and where applications should be made.

Mr. J. Griffiths

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Louth (Mr. Osborne) today.