HC Deb 27 October 1947 vol 443 c19W
83. Mr. S. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Food what reduction has been made up to the most recent date of the civil staff of his Department, which, on 1st July, 1947, showed an increase of 10,528 over the figure given on 1st April, 1947.

Mr. Strachey

On 1st April, 1947, the non-industrial staff of the Ministry numbered 43,030. On 1st July it had been temporarily increased to 53,558 while the new ration books were being distributed. On 1st October the total was 41,171, this reduction not only wiping out the temporary increase but making a further reduction of 1,859.