§ 19. Mr. Probertasked the Secretary of State for Wales what estimate he has made of the increase in staffs that will be necessary as the result of the Government's enactment of the proposals indicated in the White Paper, Fair Deal for Housing.
§ Mr. Gibson-Watt:The initial estimated increase in Rent Assessment Panel staffs in Wales is 14. This should later fall to 10.
§ Mr. Probert:Is the hon. Gentleman aware that that is contrary to the most authoritative information on this matter? Is he further aware that, in keeping to the timetable laid down by the Government, an impossible task will face local government officials and rent assessment committees which, at the same time, will be competing for the extra staff required? I can assure the lion. Gentleman that the answer he has just given is contrary to the most authoritative information that I have been able to obtain.
§ Mr. Gibson-Watt:I am sorry that I cannot give the hon. Gentleman an answer which will satisfy him. I cannot improve on the answer that I have given already.