HC Deb 11 March 1952 vol 497 c1260
48. Mr. Douglas Houghton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will bear in mind the recommendations of the Assheton Report on Training in the Civil Service, Command Paper No. 6525, when considering cuts in central and departmental training schemes.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I have had the recommendations of the Assheton Report constantly in mind in considering retrenchment in training schemes.

Mr. Houghton

Does the hon. Gentleman think it a prudent course at the present moment to cut the training services in the Civil Service by half at a time when his right hon. and learned Friend the Minister of Labour is advising the general Advisory Council to strengthen and extend training services in industry?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I do not accept the implication of the supplementary question. The main fabric of the training system has been preserved.

Mr. Austen Albu

Does the hon. Gentleman also consider that there are any advantages to be gained by making cuts in the Organisation and Methods Department of the Treasury?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that there is no system so perfect that will not repay scrutiny with a view to proper economy.