§ 58. Sir W. Wakefieldasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the efficiency of the various research institutes is still diminished by reason of the difficulties and delays which ensue as a result of the obligation imposed upon them to recruit their scientific staff centrally; and whether, in view of the specialised requirements of these institutes and the important scientific work which they are doing, he will arrange for an early modification of the present procedure.
§ Sir S. CrippsI cannot agree that central recruitment is diminishing the efficiency of research institutes. This system was introduced in accordance with the White Paper on the Scientific Civil Service (Command 6679) for the express purpose of keeping up high standards throughout the Scientific Civil Service; and the scarcity of scientists throughout the country makes it the more important to retain the main principles of the system.
167WIn the light of experience it has now been arranged that recruitment during 1949 shall be continuous, so that candidates may apply and be interviewed at times convenient to them. They will in many cases, if successful, take up their appointment immediately after interview.