§ 15. Mr. Bruce-Gardyneasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with the new local authorities regarding the need for economies in staff recruitment.
§ Mr. MillanMy noble Friend the Minister of State discussed this matter with local government representatives earlier this week.
§ Mr. Bruce-GardyneI am glad to hear that. Will the Minister assure the House that his noble Friend impressed upon the new regional and district authorities that the purpose of the reform of local government is not the aggrandisement of the staffs of local government, and that at a time like this what we should be hoping and expecting to see is not an increase 1349 but a diminution in bureaucracy for the benefit of all the ratepayers?
§ Mr. MillanI do not think that any local authorities are under the impression that local government reorganisation is for the aggrandisement of the staff. All of them are aware of the need for economy in these matters.