HC Deb 03 February 1992 vol 203 cc24-5W
47. Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Minister for the Civil Service if he will consider the establishment of a system for civil servants to appear before appropriate Committees of the House of Commons, prior to their confirmation in a senior civil service post.

Mr. Renton

No. The present arrangements for appointment on merit are efficient, impartial, well tried and have commanded the support of all parties over many years. I see no reason to change to a system of Committee hearings which has not been conspicuously successful elsewhere.