HC Deb 11 November 1970 vol 806 c386
35. Mr. Sheldon

asked the Minister for the Civil Service if he will make a statement on the progress towards a unified grading structure.

The Parliamentary Secretary for the Civil Service (Mr. David Howell)

The Official and Staff Sides are together considering the results of a study on the structure at the top of the Civil Service. The study of the levels immediately below and work on the three interim mergers of various groups of classes is also making considerable progress.

Mr. Sheldon

Is it the Government's intention to adhere to the timetable for the merger of the administrative, executive and clerical staffs? Can the scientific and works groups be brought into the merger? There is some disquiet amongst these people that in this matter they are getting the thick end of the stick and that their opportunities for promotion are nowhere near as good as they are for those in the administrative class.

Mr. Howell

It is the intention to try to adhere to the timetable for the merger of the administrative, executive and clerical groups; that is, 1st January, 1971. As to the other groups mentioned, it is hoped to make rapid progress, but it depends on consultations and on making the proper arrangements. We are hoping to get on with this.