HC Deb 04 December 1952 vol 508 cc1728-9
2. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Agriculture why his Department needs 79 in his legal department as compared with 65 in 1951–52.

Sir T. Dugdale

The estimated increase in the staff of my legal department is due to a general increase in work falling to them. The reasons for this include additional work for the Forestry Commission on conveyancing and dedication schemes and increasing pressure to clear off arrears in debt collection under the Goods and Services Scheme.

The number of staff now in post is 77 compared with 60 on 1st April, 1951.

Mr. Erroll

Can the Minister say whether any of this increased staff is required to do work in connection with prosecutions against members of the public?

Sir T. Dugdale

No doubt some of their work may be for that purpose.

Sir W. Smithers

Does the Minister realise the growing resentment among the farming industry at the increased number of snoopers?