§ Q7. Dr. Summerskillasked the Prime Minister what reduction in the number of civil servants is planned; and in what Government Departments these will take place.
§ The Prime MinisterWe are reviewing staff needs in the light of the Government's programme.
§ Dr. SummerskillCan the Prime Minister tell us when the axe will fall, as there is a gnawing anxiety among civil servants about who is to be made redundant and when it will be?
§ The Prime MinisterWe shall announce our conclusions in due course. The Staff Side knows that matters will be handled through the appropriate channels.
§ Mr. PavittMay I remind the right hon. Gentleman that the Commission in 1963 reported on the value-added tax that 20,000 more tax inspectors would be required to administer it? Will he bear that in mind in regard to the future employment of civil servants?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not accept that figure, and I do not think that the hon. Gentleman's right hon. Friends accepted it, either.