HC Deb 21 July 1969 vol 787 cc1206-7
6. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister for the Civil Service what progress has been made in the Government's policy of making savings in Civil Service manpower and costs; and to what extent the implementation of the Plowden Report on the pay of higher paid civil servants will affect this policy.

Mrs. Hart

As to the first part of my hon. Friend's Question, I would refer him to the Answer given to him by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 17th June. In answer to the second part, I see favourable rather than adverse effects.—[Vol. 785, c. 82.]

Mr. Lewis

Can my right hon. Friend explain why on 10th July a Question was tabled and accepted but an Answer refused, although she arranged a sponsored Question for the 1lth for a written reply and gave a full answer? What was the idea? Can we have some explanation?

Mrs. Hart

I am perfectly prepared to give my hon. Friend a full explanation. He will realise that these matters follow collective consideration and the timing of Questions and Answers has to relate to that.