HC Deb 12 February 1946 vol 419 cc181-2
65. Wing-Commander Cooper

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what is the procedure that is adopted by his Department, when a new Ministry is formed, in determining the number and grades of civil servants on the establishment.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

The number and grading of staff needed for the initial operations of the new Department are settled in outline in consultation with the Minister designate or his representative. Thereafter officers of the Treasury maintain close touch with the Establishments department of the new Ministry in order to adjust the cadres to the character and volume of the work as it develops.

Wing-Commander Cooper

Is any regard paid to modern methods of administration, and is advice obtained from such expert and independent bodies as the Institute of Industrial Administration in drawing up these establishments?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

I am very sorry, but I am afraid I missed most of that supplementary question. I could not hear it.

Wing-Commander Cooper

May I repeat the question? Is any regard paid to modern methods of administration, and in particular to suggestions which might be obtained from such organisations as the Institute of Industrial Administration? Further, is my hon. Friend aware of the procedure used by the Air Ministry during the war to keep a check on establishments? Would he be willing to adopt some similar procedure for the Civil Service?

Mr. Hall

All relevant matters are taken into consideration. The Treasury is aware of what went on at the Air Ministry during the war.