HC Deb 19 February 1973 vol 851 cc22-3
32. Mr. Evelyn King

asked the Minister for the Civil Service on how many occasions in the last two years printing required by the House of Commons has been delayed on account of industrial difficulties at Her Majesty's Stationery Office; and what steps he has in mind to take, in order to ensure that Members of this House are provided with papers necessary to enable them to do their work.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

There have been delays in normal delivery times for some papers on 16 occasions in this period owing to industrial disputes. These have been of short duration and the House has never been without essential papers in good time for its work. The best means of providing these papers is continually reviewed.

Mr. King

Is my hon. Friend aware that for many generations—almost a century and a half—the printing for this House was carried on with absolute reliability and integrity by a private firm bearing the proud name of Hansard, particularly by Luke Hansard? If the existing facilities continue to fall down on the job, will he consider looking for another Hansard of equal probity and reliability?

Mr. Baker

I am conscious of the need to give a first-class service to Members of Parliament. I must point out that the House makes the most exacting demands upon the Parliamentary Press. The output of printing material required by Parliament has increased by about 100 per cent. over the last 10 years. We have introduced various techniques and types of machines over the last two years to try to improve the service. I am conscious of my responsibility to maintain a high level of service.

Mr. Skinner

Would it not be true to say that the greatest difficulties are incurred not in respect of the printed material that we get from this place but in respect of much of the stuff that should be coming from the Common Market—which some of us, incidentally, do not want? Is it not there that the breakdown occurs?

Mr. Baker

The quick answer is, "No, Sir". That is nothing to do with the delays in printing at the Parliamentary Press.