asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will exempt temporary civil, servants over 40 years of age, who have given efficient and loyal service, from the proposed entrance examination; and allocate some of the 2,000 additional executive posts by Departmental selection rather than by academic distinction.

No. The method of selection in this scheme was agreed on the National Whitley Council. In determining the final order of merit 300 out of a total of 800 marks will be awarded by an interview board which will take into account personal qualities and record, including a confidential report supplied by the employing Department.