§ 6. Sir David Priceasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many people are currently employed in Her Majesty's Treasury; and of them how many have any personal professional experience of manufacture or of commerce.
§ Mr. BrittanAt 1 March 1983 there were 3,995 staff employed in the Treasury. A substantial proportion of staff employed at all grades have had personal professional experience of manufacture or commerce. At principal level or above, some 18 per cent. have had or are currently getting this experience. The Government greatly welcome this growing trend.
§ Sir David PriceIs my right hon. and learned Friend aware that those figures show a welcome improvement over the last time that I asked that question? Will he encourage the Treasury staff department to ensure that more Treasury officials have the experience of being out in the cold, competitive world of commerce and manufacturing?
§ Mr. BrittanThat is important and I agree with my hon. Friend.
§ Sir William ClarkHow many professional accountants are there in the Treasury?
§ Mr. BrittanI shall write to my hon. Friend to give him that answer.