13 parliamentary secretaries to be appointed in Bengal

West Bengal Parliamentary Affairs Minister Partha Chatterjee today said the parliamentary secretaries, who will enjoy the status, privileges and perks similar to that of a minister of state, would be sworn in on January 24 at the West Bengal Assembly premises.

The West Bengal Parliamentary Secretaries (Appointment, Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous) Bill, 2012, was passed in the Assembly in this regard last month for the appointment of parliamentary secretaries.

Opposition members had vehemently opposed the introduction of the Bill, describing it as a step to put burden on the state government when it was facing an acute financial problem.

As per the Bill, a parliamentary secretary would be a member of the West Bengal Assembly appointed to the post under the proposed Act by the chief minister. However, the number of the parliamentary secretaries was not specified.

The strength of the state council of ministers is 44.

The parliamentary secretaries would be appointed from among the sitting MLAs and would function as intermediaries between the departmental secretaries and the concerned minister and liaison with leaders of other parties and groups.

The Bill prohibits a parliamentary secretary from practising any profession or being involved in trade or commerce or accept remuneration from any other source.

The parliamentary secretaries would also advise ministers on procedure and other assembly matters, besides maintaining coordination of action by ministers on recommendations of general application made by assembly committees.