20. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Minister of Food whether he can state the total number of Ministry of Food enforcement officers employed as at 1st January, 1948; and whether, in view of the need for increased production, he will give an assurance that the existing numbers will not be increased and that every endeavour will be made to effect a reduction.
§ Dr. SummerskillSeven hundred and fifty-one enforcement officers were employed by my Department on 1st January, 1948. Some increase in this number will be necessary as a result of the recent decision to implement certain recommendations of the Bodinnar Committee, but every endeavour will be made to reduce the total number so soon as circumstances permit.
Mr. De la BèreIs it not a fact that even if the figure was doubled no good results would be obtained unless the Government carried the good will of the people? It is no use trying to drive people to enforcement officers. It is necessary to have good will.
§ Dr. SummerskillBut the hon. Member will agree that while infringements of our Orders persist it would not be in the public interest to reduce the number of our enforcement officers.