§ 49. Mr. Rentonasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what steps he took in 1952, and what steps he proposes to take in 1953, in order to reduce the cost of carrying out the duties of the Treasury.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterThe answer to both parts of the Question is "A great many." The Estimates for the Treasury (including the Capital Issues Committee and the delegation in Washington but excluding subordinate departments) indicate broadly the reductions achieved in 1952—staff reduced as at 31st March, 1952, and 1953 respectively from 1,518 to 1,488 and cost from £1,280,000 to £1,248,000. Similarly the estimates for 1953 show that we hope by March, 1954. to reduce staff to 1,387 and costs to £1,209,000.
§ Mr. RentonWould my hon. Friend ensure that the excellent example of the Treasury is followed by other Departments?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterIt is an example of the fact that economy, like charity, still begins at home.