(a) With the approval of the Speaker, or in accordance with policies and procedures approved by the Speaker, the Parliamentarian shall appoint such attorneys and other employees as may be necessary for the prompt and efficient performance of the functions of the Office. Any such appointment shall be made without regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of fitness to perform the duties of the position. Any person so appointed may be removed by the Parliamentarian with the approval of the Speaker, or in accordance with policies and procedures approved by the Speaker.

(b)

(1) One of the attorneys appointed under subsection (a) of this section shall be designated by the Parliamentarian as Deputy Parliamentarian. During the absence or disability of the Parliamentarian, or when the office is vacant, the Deputy Parliamentarian shall perform the functions of the Parliamentarian.

(2) The Parliamentarian may delegate to the Deputy Parliamentarian and to other employees appointed under subsection (a) of this section such of the functions of the Parliamentarian as the Parliamentarian considers necessary or appropriate.