HC Deb 01 February 1945 vol 407 cc1639-40W
Mr. Manning

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that it is not the practice of his Department to give a general authority to councils to engage ordinary clerical staff for re-housing work but that they are expected to obtain prior approval before making any temporary appointments no matter how junior the position or however urgent the work; and if he will alter this practice.

Mr. Willink

The practice referred to by my hon. Friend applies to those war-time re-housing services in which the expenditure incurred by local authorities is fully reimbursed by the Government. I am not aware that the practice has embarrassed local authorities or retarded the work of re-housing, and I see no reason to alter it. If, however, my hon. Friend has any particular case in mind and will let me have details, I shall be glad to look into it.