rules

The review examined "exception" appointments, whereby the normal civil service recruitment rules are bypassed.

According to civil service rules, 'exception' appointments can be made in certain circumstances, for example if it is a temporary appointment, if the job requires "highly specialist skills", or to fill gaps in periods of short-term urgent need.

Even if Senate Republicans strike a deal with Senator Debbie Stabenow, any agreement would face hurdles in the House, where ultraconservatives’ long-standing opposition makes passage under suspension of the rules unlikely.

Under the current rules, tenants have to repay this discount to the council if they then sell the property on within five years of buying.

"The Right to Buy has helped millions into home ownership. It has given something back to families who worked hard, paid their rent, and played by the rules," he said.