§ 3. Mr. Culverwellasked the Minister of Economic Warfare how many persons were employed in his Department on 1st April, 1st May and 1st June, respectively?
§ Mr. DaltonThe numbers are 1,338, 1,487 and 1,461. I am at present engaged on reorganising the work of the Ministry, having regard to recent changes in the war situation and to new possibilities of effective economic warfare against the enemy. It is possible that such reorganisation will result in some further reduction in the total number of the staff, but the paramount consideration which I shall have in mind will be to increase to the utmost the effectiveness of the Ministry.
§ Mr. CulverwellIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that recent events have considerably reduced the sphere of his activities, and is it not time that some reduction was made in the size of his staff instead of an increase?
§ Mr. DaltonIf the hon. Member will read my answer with attention he will see that I have in mind the point he has raised, but I judge it to be more important to help our fighting men to win the war than to save a few jobs.
§ Mr. ManderCan the Minister say whether the hon. Gentleman is anxious to promote the efficiency of the Department or not?
§ Mr. CulverwellDoes the Minister think that a greater number of staff will mean more efficient work being performed?