§ 55. Mr. HARMSWORTHasked the Prime Minister whether the increase 827 which has occurred in the permanent staff of the secretaries' departments of almost every Ministry since the beginning of the late War, out of all proportion to the increase in the permanent staffs in other departments of the Ministries, is the outcome of a definite policy; and what objects it is designed to serve?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Ronald McNeill)I am not aware that disproportionate increases have occurred in the staffs of secretaries' departments since August, 1914. Such Increases as have occurred are accounted for by increases in the volume and complexity of work.
§ Mr. HARMSWORTHMay I ask whether, in increasing other departments, the right hon. Gentleman will also consider decreasing the secretaries' department, which in many cases is out of proportion to the increases in other departments?
§ Mr. McNEILLI should not like to commit myself to those figures, but I cannot agree with that observation.