§ Mr. Randallasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered the representations made by the staff side of the National Whitley Council on political activities by civil servants; and whether he has any statement to make.
§ Sir S. CrippsYes. The Government recognise that there is a case for considering whether the present rules require modification. But in a difficult and controversial question of this nature they wish to have the advice of an independent body of opinion and I propose therefore to set up a Committee for this purpose with the following terms of reference
To examine the existing limitations on the political activities (both national and local) 344W which may be undertaken by civilian Government staffs, and to make recommendations as to any changes which may be desirable in the public interest.The composition of the Committee will be announced very shortly.