§ Mr. John Mooreasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why Her Majesty's Customs and Excise has increased its staff in post from 24,932 on 1st March 1974 to 29,390 on 1st April 1976; and if he will publish details of where and in what activities these increases have taken place.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonThe main reasons for increase in the numbers of staff in Her Majesty's Customs and Excise between 1st March 1974 and 1st April 1976 were the strengthening of VAT administration and control, and increased trade with the European Economic Community. The extra staff are located in headquarters and local offices throughout the country.