jobs for the boys

jobs for the boys

Employment or other benefits given to people who are closely connected, such as friends, relatives, or supporters. Primarily heard in UK, Australia. Many have accused the government sector of being largely made up of jobs for the boys, as you aren't likely to find an employee who isn't related to someone else in one way or another.
See also: boy, job
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

jobs for the boys

BRITISH
If you talk about jobs for the boys, you mean that good jobs are given to people who are the friends, relatives, or supporters of someone in a particular organization. The council has faced a string of allegations over `jobs for the boys'. The post wasn't even advertised. In other words, this was a `jobs for the boys' appointment. Note: People also sometimes talk about jobs for the girls when it is women who are given jobs in this way. One of these women was a friend of the prime minister's wife so inevitably there were comments about `jobs for the girls'. Note: These expressions are used in a disapproving way.
See also: boy, job
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

jobs for the boys

used in reference to the practice of giving paid employment to your friends, supporters, or relations. British derogatory
2002 Guardian The James Report found the unit operated a ‘jobs for the boys’ recruitment policy favouring Reed's friends and political acquaintances.
See also: boy, job
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

jobs for the ˈboys

(British English, informal, disapproving) good jobs, positions or contracts that are given to people only or mainly because they are friends, relatives or supporters: The city officials here are completely corrupt. It’s jobs for the boys.
See also: boy, job
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • chip
  • chips
  • up on (one's) ear
  • Two Bob
  • (as) dead as mutton
  • dead as mutton
  • mutton
  • one of the boys
  • one of the lads
  • be well in
References in periodicals archive
We don't need more "jobs for the boys and girls", but elected politicians to keep their word and to remember they are paid representatives of voters, for many of whom life is a struggle.
No silly jobs, we need honest politicians
This summer's display caused some critics among the Lancashire members to call for Chapple's and Allott's head among accusations that a 'jobs for the boys' club was operating at Emirates Old Trafford.
Allott: Chapple's job was never at risk despite drop; CRICKET
Co-Exist SOMEHOW together but apart we co-exist The very poor and the mighty rich That's the way it is and has always been The rich and the poor are a divided team While the working class struggle to survive The upper class as ever continue to thrive Fortunes handed down from father to son Unfortunately that's how it is and will always be done Their children's education is beyond reproach Taught only by the best tutor or coach A first class degree is top of their list And jobs for the boys is the final twist Finally the wealth will be passed on Creating another wealthy daughter or son.
POEMS OF THE DAY
Jobs for the boys? Newcastle Parks Charitable Trust?
Distrusting of trust plans; Letters
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has the power to eliminate nepotism, cronyism and jobs for the boys, but would find it difficult to "set an example" as her husband is the CEO of the SNP.
Gravy train won't stop; RECORD READERS
To me and the likes (possibly STV) the answer is simple, instead of jobs for the boys (the programme Yes Minister, although a comedy show, actually showed up our political system for what it really is - incompetent elected representatives then delegate their responsibilities to lesser mortals, thus repaying favours, etc.) I say this from experience having worked all my adult life in public service.
Travellers - it's a national problem
"It's jobs for the boys to have deputy cabinet roles in all portfolios.
New city posts 'not jobs for the boys'
These are the Tories who loathe "jobs for the boys" quango jobs paid for by taxpayers.
Friends to keep you off benefits
Jobs for the boys? At this point in time, it very much looks like it.
First Aidy is FA Cobblers
'Jobs for the boys' culture has to go, not closing valuable facilities.
ONLINE VIEWS
The "jobs for the boys" operation run by the Prime Minister and his deputy, Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg, means women only account for 21 per cent of the Government.
Cam blasted over 'jobs for the boys'
I won't hold my breath waiting for the political parties to take my advice to cut Councillors, because I know it won't happen - it's jobs for the boys!!
Waste of council cash; You Say Email:letters@liverpoolecho.co.uk
But shadow rural affairs minister Antoinette Sandbach said the Wales AWB was "all about jobs for the boys on another quango".
Move to establish an AWB for Wales
naturaljazz said: "Jobs for the boys as usal ~ literally.
reader FEEDBACK
Fans have accused the BBC of "jobs for the boys" by getting the ex-England captain, a regular on Radio 4's Test Match Special, to interview players.
BBC blasted for hiring cricketer Vaughan to cover US Masters golf