§ Mr. DORISasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether clerks to pension subcommittees in Ireland were not paid their fees for the quarter ended 31st December, 1909, until April, 1910, and for the quarter ended 31st March, 1910, until June; and if he can make arrangements for the more punctual payment of these officials?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThere have no doubt been some instances in which the fees due to clerks to pension sub-committees in Ireland have not been paid until three months after the end of the quarter. Every effort is made, and will be made, by the Commissioners of Customs and Excise to ensure punctual payment; but this can only be done if the clerks themselves will cooperate by forwarding their accounts regularly at the end of each quarter, and replying promptly to any inquiries which it may be necessary to make of them in the course of examining the accounts. It may be1754W mentioned in this connection that some of the accounts for the quarter ending 31st December, 1909, have not yet been received.