§ 39. Mr. A. R. W. Lowasked the Secretary of State for War what is the average percentage of headquarters staff already saved by the economies recently announced; what further percentage will be saved in the current financial year; and whether he will give the same figures for saving in the War Office.
§ Mr. ShinwellBetween 1st April and 30th September, 1949, the number of persons employed in the War Office fell by 12.9 per cent. By 31st March, 1950, it is anticipated that there will be a further decrease of at least 5 per cent.
§ Mr. LowWhat about the headquarters staff, to which the Question refers, in addition to the War Office?
§ Mr. ShinwellI assumed that when the hon. Member referred to headquarters staff he meant staff at headquarters, and gave an answer accordingly.
§ Mr. LowIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are other headquarters and that the cuts, when they were announced, specifically referred to those?
§ Mr. ShinwellI understand what the hon. Member is driving at and if he wants further information about the commands generally I will try to get it for him.