§ 29. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Minister of Pensions whether any reductions are contemplated in the staff of his Department; and, if so, how they affect the men and women, respectively, who may be liable to be regarded as supernumerary?
§ The MINISTER of PENSIONS (Mr. F. O. Roberts)The natural decline in the volume of work and the introduction of improved machinery of business will result in a large number of clerks becoming redundant during the present calendar year. Redundant "P" class male clerks are being allocated to other Government Departments through the Joint Substitution Board of the Treasury and Ministry of Labour. I regret that 862 there appears to be no alternative to the discharge of redundant temporary women clerks.
§ Mr. SOMERVILLECan the right hon. Gentleman give any indication of the number who will be dismissed entirely and not be placed in other Government positions?
§ Mr. ROBERTSI could not give any definite figures just now.