53
and
constantly codified into standing orders and numerous files submitted for decisions; but it nevertheless requires strong and wise direction by men of reliable political judgement and experience in getting the best work out of promising and intelligent subordinates. The comparison and co-ordination
of different ventures in different districts is a constant and continuing task, especially since many of our methods and approaches must remain experimental for some time to come, the interchange of information and experience between Districts calls for a strong and informed and centralised examination of all the work done as it proceeds. Something new reported from two districts will perhaps be a co-incidence, but if the same note is struck in four or five districts then the organisation must be such that someone with judgement and experience takes a long and careful look at it without delay perhaps with senior officers in other departments or in the Secretariat. The present superstructure seems to me to be adequate for our present needs in this respect but the quality of the officers holding these superscale posts is a matter of paramount importance and the fact that they are usually kept relatively away from the limelight does not affect this at all.
118.
The similarities of the City District Officer scheme to the rural District Officer
system upon which it is to some extent based speak for themselves, and a word should perhaps be said about the differences. We have come
upon nothing in the last twelve months to
suggest that executive powers should be conferred upon this organisation, for in the sophisticated
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