§ Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Prime Minister whether any Government Department has used the services of the Economic League since 1979, when considering applications for jobs; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterI am advised by the Civil Service Commissioners who are responsible for recruitment to the higher levels of the Civil Service that they have not used the services of the Economic League. Recruitment to the more junior levels is the responsibility of Government Departments individually and details are not held centrally of recruitment schemes they operate. I am not aware, however, that any Department has used the League's services when considering applications for jobs. Civil Service recruitment at all levels is governed by the principle of fair and open competition and selection on merit.