§ 48. Mr. Stokesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many dictaphones are now in use throughout Government offices; and whether he is advocating an intensification of their use so as to reduce time wasted by shorthand typists in Government offices and increase the number available for production industries.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallThere are 1,036 dictating machines in Government departments and their use is being progressively developed.
§ Mr. StokesWhilst encouraged by the numbers, which are at least double what they were when I last asked this Question in 1939, may I ask my right hon. Friend to state what the policy of the Government is? Is he aware that the use of these machines increases the over-all efficiency of the individual by at least 100 per cent., though they may not increase the departmental efficiency quite so much?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallI think we all agree with what my hon. Friend has said, otherwise we should not instal them.
§ Mr. Oliver StanleyDoes the right hon. Gentleman himself use one and thus increase his efficiency by 100 per cent.?
§ Colonel Gomme-DuncanCan the right hon. Gentleman tell the House how many of these machines are in use in Government Departments in Scotland?
§ Mr. Glenvil HallNo, Sir; I am sorry, I should need notice of that question, but if the hon. and gallant Gentleman is interested I will find out and write to him. privately.