HC Deb 30 July 1942 vol 382 cc676-7
32. Sir H. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department the total number of persons employed by the Regional Commissioners in England and Wales?

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

The total staff employed by Regional Commissioners in England and Wales on 1st July, 1942, was 3,765. This figure includes Deputy-Regional Commissioners and 221 part-time officers, 120 of whom are unpaid.

Sir H. Williams

Does the Home Secretary realise that some people are becoming perturbed about the rapid growth of the number of these people, who, after all, are engaged only in subordinate services?

Mr. Morrison

My impression is that the number has been reduced in recent months. In fact, I am surprised, in view of the magnitude and responsibility of the work of the regional offices, that the figure is as low as it is.

Major Petherick

Without casting any aspersions on the present occupants of the posts and their staff, may I ask whether the system of Regional Commissioners is justifying itself?

Mr. Morrison

Absolutely.