Junior Clerks 1782-1856

Junior Clerks 1782-1856

Between 1782 and 1805 there were a varying number of Clerks on the establishment in addition to the twelve directly involved in the work of the divisions. These Clerks lacked any specific designation. For the purpose of these lists they have been described as 'Junior Clerks'. They must, however, be distinguished from the six Junior (Assistant) Clerks serving in the divisions for whom provision was made in 1782. Beginning at two in 1782 the number of Clerks in question was increased to three in 1783, to five in 1795 and to ten in 1797. (fn. 1) They all received a basic salary of £100 as Clerks on the establishment. Certain of them enjoyed additional allowances in consideration of their responsibilities as Copying Clerks, (fn. 2) Clerks of the Minutes, (fn. 3) Bills of Exchange, (fn. 4) or Papers, (fn. 5) or as Private Secretaries to the First Lord. (fn. 6)

In 1805 a new grade, specifically designated that of Junior Clerk, was instituted. Provision was made for nine such Clerks. (fn. 7) The number was increased to eleven in 1808, to twelve in 1811 and to sixteen in 1813. (fn. 8) It was reduced to eleven in 1821 (fn. 9) and increased to thirteen in 1834. (fn. 10) The grade was abolished in 1856. (fn. 11)

The salary scale attached to the grade in 1805 was £120, rising after three years to £150 and after seven years to £200. (fn. 12) In 1813 the scale was improved and the maximum salary was raised to £520 after twenty years. (fn. 13) In 1821 it was fixed at £100 rising, after three years, by annual increments of £10 to £200. (fn. 14) In 1831 the starting level was reduced to £90. (fn. 15)

LISTS OF APPOINTMENTS