§ 2. Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what increase or decrease in staff there was in the Department under his control in the period 16th October, 1964 to 15th October, 1965; and what increase or decrease he anticipates in the period up to 15th April, 1966.
§ The Minister of State, Commonwealth Relations Office (Mr. Cledwyn Hughes)The staff of the Commonwealth Relations Office on 16th October, 1964, was 867 and on the 15th October, 1965, 438. The decrease of 429 is explained mainly by the amalgamation on 1st January, 1965, of the administrative departments of the Commonwealth Relations Office, which numbered 395, with those of the Foreign Office.
In the period up to 15th April, 1966, no significant change is foreseen in the staff of the Commonwealth Relations Office.
§ Mr. OnslowHow much work has been taken off the hon. Gentleman's Department by the new Commonwealth Secretariat, and what decrease in staff is likely to result?
§ Mr. HughesWe do not visualise that any work will be taken away from the Commonwealth Relations Office by the Commonwealth Secretariat, and there will be no decrease in staff on that account.