§ Mr. Albuasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state the subjects of the examination for the administrative class of the Civil Service, the choice of subjects required of candidates and the maximum number of marks obtainable in each subject.
§ Mr. GreenThere are two methods of entry to the Administrative Class, by open competition from outside the Civil Service.
In both methods candidates normally have to take a qualifying examination in general subjects (Essay 100 marks, English 200, General Paper 200). Candidates by one method then go on to group tests and interviews at the Civil Service Selection Board and an interview by the Final Board; there is no further academic examination but a good honours degree, which can be in any subject, is a necessary qualification.
28WIn the other method candidates need not have a degree. They take papers set and marked at final honours degree level, and also have an interview. There is a choice of 149 academic subjects; each paper carries 100 marks but in some subjects there are two papers. Subject to certain exceptions, candidates can choose any combination of subjects giving a possible total of up to 700 marks. Full details of the examination subjects and the limitations of the choice of papers will be found on pages 28–30 of the Civil Service Commission's Regulations for the Administrative Group of Open Competitions, a copy of which I am sending to the hon. Member. It will be seen that those who have studied mathematical or scientific subjects are thus placed at no disadvantage.