asked the Lord President of the Council what salary is being paid to the chief publicity officer to the Central Planning Organisation.

The salary of the Chief Economic Information Officer, who has been appointed on a temporary basis, is £3,750.

Is not that salary the equivalent to that paid to the most senior officers of the Civil Service? And is it not substantially higher than that paid to any other public relations officer of any other Government Department?

This appointment is a temporary appointment. Special qualifications were necessary, and the salary is actually no more than the income which Mr. Leslie was earning before he came to this post.

Can the Lord President say what are the special qualifications ?

Yes, Sir, I have already answered that Question in a written answer which appeared in HANSARD on Friday, but there is no doubt that his qualifications are outstanding.

What are they?

I can tell the House, if the House wishes.

The Question only asks what was the salary paid.