HC Deb 08 November 1948 vol 457 cc1260-1
36. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Minister of Supply if he will give, in convenient categories, the number of persons employed by his Department at Foxbury, Chislehurst; and what is the annual cost of that establishment.

Mr. G. R. Strauss

Five hundred and fifty-four persons are employed at Foxbury, Chislehurst, in the following categories; officer grades 15, technical grades 106, administrative, clerical and typing staff 52, miscellaneous non-industrial grades 34, industrials 347. The annual cost of the establishment is, approximately, £200,000.

Sir W. Smithers

Is the Minister aware that I am credibly informed that the waste of manpower, the waste of time, and the waste of the taxpayers' money is scandalous at this establishment; and will he set up an inquiry under an independent chairman to look into the whole working of the establishment?

Mr. Strauss

I have no evidence to confirm the allegations made by the hon. Gentleman.