§ Mr. LUNDONasked the Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction in the Excise Department owing to loss of prospects consequent on the reduction in the number of appointments in the higher grades; and whether he can explain why only six promotions to the rank of supervisor have been made since 1st January, 1909, although the yearly average previously was not less than thirty?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEAs the hon. Member is no doubt aware, I am presiding over a Committee which is at present considering the amalgamation of the Customs and Excise Services. I can assure him that the matter referred to will receive my careful consideration, but in the circumstances I would ask him to allow me to refrain from giving any further answer to his question.
§ Mr. FRANCIS MEEHANasked the Secretary to the Treasury, whether, in view of the first meeting of the Customs and Excise Amalgamation Inquiry Committee having been delayed until the 1st instant, he can arrange for sittings on more than one day a week in order that, as soon as possible, the changes recommended may be carried out, and the present dislocation in promotion in the higher grades of the Excise Department removed?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI regret that I am not able to increase the number of the sittings of the Committee beyond one a week, and I cannot pledge myself to maintain that number constantly.