HC Deb 26 February 1946 vol 419 cc1717-8
4. Lieutenant William Shepherd

asked the Minister of Works the number of per sons employed in his Department in June, 1939, and in January, 1946, respectively.

The Minister of Works (Mr. Tomlinson)

The number of staff in non-industrial grades employed in my Department, i.e., at headquarters, in the Edinburgh office and in the various offices throughout the country, was approximately 6,400 in June, 1939, and 16,800 in January, 1946. In addition the directly employed industrial staff numbered 6,300 and 16,400 on the two dates respectively. In January, 1946, there were also 4,800 industrial staff employed in the Special Repair Service.

Lieutenant Shepherd

Can the Minister say what benefit has accrued to the community as a result of the growth of this monstrous mushroom organisation?

Mr. Tomlinson

I should say, in proportion to the growth of the numbers employed.

Mr. S. O. Davies

I wonder whether the right hon. Gentleman would grant facilities for increasing the numbers of his technical staffs in the provinces, particularly in South Wales, where there is a very great need for them?