§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many vacancies presently exist for firemasters in Scotland ; when these vacancies fell due ; when they were advertised ; how many applications were submitted for each vacancy ; how many applicants were 228W interviewed ; how many were recommended for appointment ; and in how many cases he has withheld his approval of appointment.
§ Mr. Gordon Campbell: One post fell vacant in March, 1971 and has not yet been filled. The post was advertised by the Area Joint Committee in December 1970 ; 17 candidates applied of whom five were interviewed. One candidate was recommended for appointment by the Joint Committee but I felt obliged to withhold my approval.