§ 31. Mr. Simmonsasked the Minister of Pensions how far the reduction in staff noted in Command Paper No. 8691 involves curtailment of his Department's welfare services.
Mr. AmoryI can assure the hon. Member that the staff reduction in question involves no such curtailment.
§ 32. Mr. Simmonsasked the Minister of Pensions the net reduction of staff during 1950–51 and 1951–52; and what proportion has been effected in services rendered under the National Health Act.
Mr. AmoryDuring the years ended 31st March, 1951, and 31st March, 1952, the staff of my Department was reduced by about 500 and 1,170, respectively. There was no reduction in the staff employed on work connected with the supply of artificial limbs and other appliances under the National Health Service.
§ Mr. SimmonsCould the Minister say whether any of these reductions has involved any curtailment or suspension of the development of the Ministry's welfare services?