HC Deb 13 July 1960 vol 626 cc1388-9
41. Mr. Peyton

asked the Secretary of State for Air why the staff of his Department has increased in each of the last two years.

Mr. Ward

In these two years non-industrial civilians have replaced servicemen in about 3,600 posts. Since the total number of these civilians rose at the same time by only 1,144, there has in fact been a real reduction in staff.

Mr. Peyton

In that case may I offer my right hon. Friend my profound congratulations?

Mr. de Freitas

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell his hon. Friend that, although this may have happened, the proportion of senior officers in the Air Ministry to look after this staff has increased very rapidly?

Mr. Ward

The hon. Gentleman and I have often debated that before, and I think that he is quite clear about the reasons for it.