§ Mr. BennettTo ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps were taken under the rules relating to business appointments for former civil servants in connection with the appointment of Sir Charles Powell as a director of Jardine Matheson.
Mr. JacksonStaff at Sir Charles Powell's grade are required to seek approval for any paid outside appointment they wish to accept within two years of 141W leaving the civil service. Applications are referred to the head of the home civil service, who advises the appropriate departmental Minister whether any conditions should be applied. Individual applications are treated in confidence.