§ 41. Mr. Wingfield Digbyasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what consultations there have been through the Whitley machinery of his Department with those of his staff affected by the moves resulting from the recommendations of the Arton Wilson Report.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Mr. J. B. Godber)There has been regular consultation with the Staff Side of my Departmental Whitley Council on all the changes arising from the Wilson Report. Their advice has been most valuable, and their views have been taken fully into account in all decisions reached.
§ Mr. DigbyIs my hon. Friend aware that there is much anxiety among the local staff of his Department owing to the lack of consultation? Will he look at the matter again, and try to ensure fuller consultation, down to the local level?
§ Mr. GodberI cannot say that I am aware of that. I know that in certain areas the implementation of the Wilson Report has undoubtedly brought problems—which it was bound to do because of the economies which it has effected by way of amalgamations—but I understand that there have been no real difficulties which have not been adequately met during the course of negotiation.