HC Deb 10 February 1948 vol 447 cc199-200
22. Mr. Bossom

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is satisfied that the members of the deciphering department of the War Office are now fully employed and have been so for the last six months.

Mr. Shinwell

Yes. The staff has been reduced by 15 per cent. during the last six months, and will be still further reduced during the next few months.

Mr. Bossom

Can the Minister say how many people are employed in that service at the present time?

Mr. Shinwell

It is not the custom to publish the numbers.

Mr. Bossom

Is the Minister satisfied that a 15 per cent. reduction will provide work for all these other officials, because they do not seem to think so?

Mr. Shinwell

If there is a conflict of opinion, we will naturally take note of what the hon. Member has said.