§ Mr. Alan Williamsasked the right hon. Member for Middlesbrough, as representing the House of Commons Commission, if he will outline the intended role and powers of the proposed inspector of staffing; and what progress has been made in the creation and filling of this post.
§ Mr. Arthur BottomleyAs the Commission made clear in paragraph 14 of its third annual report—1980–81—the appointment of a staff inspector with direct access to itself is one of the ways in which it hopes to exercise greater control over expenditure and staffing in House Departments, and keep within reasonable bounds expenditure by the House on its activities and services. An appointment has been made, and the Commission is currently reviewing the nominee's conditions of service and the terms of a draft directive to assist the staff inspector in carrying out his duties.