§ Mr. Onslowasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how he accounts for the increase of 1,210 in the staff of the Inland Revenue in the period 1st July to 1st November, 1970; and what increase or decrease he now anticipates in the period up to 30th June, 1971.
§ Mr. Patrick JenkinThe Inland Revenue required an increase in staff for the financial year 1970–71 to deal with additional work arising in the year, mainly in tax offices. The Department also had to meet the situation recognised by the Estimates Committee in their 5th Report (Session 1968–69) that the Department was seriously understaffed and overworked. About half the total increase for the year was concentrated in the period in question, which is the most fruitful time for recruitment from schools and universities.
It is not yet possible to forecast changes in the period up to 30th June, 1971.