asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether when permanent non-pensionable ex-service clerks in the Civil Service in receipt of weekly salaries are appointed to the established clerical classes under the provisions of Clause 5 of the Government memorandum of 12th January, 1925, any reduction is made in their pay; if so, will he say what such actual reductions amount to; whether any representations have been made to him by the various staffs concerned; and, if so, will he state what action the Government intend to take in the matter?

I am not yet able to add anything to the reply which I gave to the hon. and gallant Member on this subject on 8th April last. The question raised is under discussion with the representative Staff Associations concerned, from one of which I am awaiting a further communication.

When will it suit the hon. Gentleman's convenience for me to repeat the question?

I cannot anticipate the negotiations that are still proceeding, but, when they are completed and I am able to give the information, I will let the hon. and gallant Gentleman know.