§ Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Industry what is the cost of employing the consultants to interview candidates for the post of deputy chairman of the Post Office.
§ Mr. Michael MarshallThe consultants' quotation in this case was made in competition with other firms of executive search consultants. It would not be appropriate, therefore, to disclose the actual fees payable; this information is commercially confidential.
§ Mr. Cryerasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether Mr. Ron Dearing was interviewed by the consultants employed to recommend a replacement deputy chairman of the Post Office; how many civil servants other than Mr. Dearing were considered; whether the post was advertised either inside the Civil Service or outside; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael MarshallMr. Dearing was interviewed by the consultants in the same way as other candidates. No other480W civil servant was considered. The post was not advertised either within or outside the Civil Service. It has not been the practice of successive Governments to advertise such posts.