HC Deb 02 April 1940 vol 359 c23
41. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister of Information what reorganisation has taken place in the work of the Ministry since he took office; to what extent, and in what way, its scope has either been increased or decreased; and whether any alteration in the number of the staff has taken place?

Sir J. Reith

Various changes in organisation have been made, but the scope of the Ministry is still under consideration and I regret I am unable to give a definite answer yet. Meantime there has been a continual expansion of the Ministry's activities abroad and at home, to meet which additions to the staff have been made as the work demands. Staff at headquarters and in regional offices number 674.

Mr. Mander

Can the Minister say how soon it will be possible to make a statement about reorganisation, in view of the many rumours that are floating about at the present time?

Sir J. Reith

No, Sir. I am sorry I cannot, but certainly it will be as soon as possible.

Mr. H. Morrison

Will the Minister circulate in the OFFICIAL REPORT a statement as to what information the Minister of Information is responsible for and what information he is not responsible for?

Sir J. Reith

I would suggest that Question might be answered when I make the other statement to which the Question of the hon. Member for East Wolverhampton (Mr. Mander) referred.

Mr. R. Gibson

Can the Minister say how the figure of 674 is divided between headquarters staff and regional staffs?

Sir J. Reith

Yes, Sir. There are 62 in the regions.