§ 1. Mr. DAYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can state the number of persons employed in the passport department of the Foreign Office in July, 1914, and July, 1929, respectively?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. Arthur Henderson)In July, 1914, three persons were employed in the Passport Office in London and none in Liverpool. In July, 1929, the corresponding figures were 236 and 37 respectively. The staff employed varies from time to time in proportion to the volume of work, and these numbers represent the staff at its highest figure during the busy season.
§ Mr. DAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of any complaints lately of delay at the Passport Office in London?
§ Mr. HENDERSONNo, I have had no complaints. If my hon. Friend has any and will send them to me, I will have investigation made.
§ Colonel ASHLEYCan the right hon. Gentleman take any steps to reduce the 1292 staff and do away with the necessity for passports?
§ Mr. HENDERSONThat is a matter I shall have to look into. The figures I have given are the figures as they were left by my predecessors.
§ Colonel ASHLEYI only asked if it is not possible to do away with passports soon?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is a much larger question.