§ Q5. Sir S. McAddenasked the Prime Minister whether he will instruct Departments to report to him the number of their officials who have the right of entry into private homes without permission of the occupier; and if he will publish the results.
§ The Prime MinisterI am making inquiries, and will write to the hon. Member.
§ Sir S. McAddenI thank the Prime Minister for that reply. Will he bear in mind that five years ago there were over 10,000 Ministerial officials with these powers, apart from local authorities? Since then, we have had a great deal of inquisitorial legislation and a big increase in the Civil Service. This matter is rather urgent.
§ The Prime MinisterI am well aware that the hon. Gentleman had a whole series of Questions down on this subject five years ago and collected a great deal of information. I am now doing my best to bring this information up to date for the hon. Member and the House.