HC Deb 18 June 1968 vol 766 c887
8. Mr. Graham Page

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what reduction in the number of rent assessment officers was made during the financial year 1967–68 and what reduction is expected during the present financial year.

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. James MacColl)

The net reduction in the financial year 1967–68 was 33 officers, of whom 19 were part time rent officers. It is expected that in the present financial year the reduction will be in the order of 30 officers, of whom more than half will be part time rent officers.

Mr. Page

Why should there be any reduction at all? Does not the hon. Gentleman realise that they will be required under the Government's announced policy in the White Paper, "Old Homes into New Homes"? Are the Government seriously intending to carry out that policy as early as possible?

Mr. MacColl

The answer to the last sentence is, yes, we are intending to carry out the policies of the White Paper. As to the other matter, we cannot keep staff hanging around waiting until the work is there. We must economise in staff.

Mr. Frank Allaun

Will my hon. Friend note the enthusiasm and persistence with which Conservative Members are pressing for higher rents through rent decontrol?

Mr. MacColl

I hope that my hon. Friend will not forget that there is much more in the White Paper than just high rents.

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