HC Deb 14 March 1927 vol 203 cc1647-8
84. Mr. W. BAKER

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how many types of office machines are at present in use in Government Departments, and the names of such machines and their countries of origin; and whether he will supply a detailed statement showing the staff economy which has been made since the introduction of the Sundstrand machines in the Savings Bank Department?

Mr. McNEILL

Over a hundred types of machines are employed in Government Departments, and I fear that it is not possible to give detailed information relating thereto within the limits of a reply to a question. With regard to the second part of the question, both the Sundstrand and another type of machine are being introduced into the Savings Bank as part of a general scheme of re-organisation. At the present time, this re-organisation has been applied to only a small proportion of the Department, and while it is clear that substantial economies will ultimately accrue, no detailed statement of savings can yet be given.

Mr. BAKER

I understand that a reply to a question is not a suitable form for giving this information. Has the right hon. Gentleman any objection to supplying the information in the form of a statement?

Mr. McNEILL

I will consider that. The hon. Member will observe that there are over 100 types of machines, and it would be a very long answer to a question, but I will see if I can give the information in the form of a statement.

Captain CROOKSHANK

These 100 types of machines, do they include British machines?

Mr. McNEILL

Yes.

Sir H. BRITTAIN

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the majority of them are British?

Mr. McNEILL

I could not say without notice. I think so.