HC Deb 15 December 1978 vol 960 cc402-3W
Lord James Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Minister for the Civil Service what are the total numbers of civil servants employed by the Scottish Office and by other Government Departments in Scotland for each year since 1970.

Mr. Charles R. Morris:

The following table shows, for the Scottish Office and for other Government Departments, the total numbers of civil servants employed in Scotland in each year since 1970 as at 1st July.

Mr. Duffy:

A significant part of the Meteorological Office's research programme is aimed, directly or indirectly, at developing and improving the techniques used in forecasting, extending the scope of coverage of forecasts and the provision of greater detail as well as improving the accuracy of the weather forecast. It is not possible to separate the investment that has been made in improving the accuracy of forecasts alone.

Details of improvements in the accuracy of forecasts for 24–72 hours ahead were sent to my hon. Friend in March 1977, and this position has been maintained. Present research using radar and satellite imagery holds considerable promise for improving local forecasts up to 12 hours ahead and the office is beginning to prepare the way for the introduction of new methods of forecasting for periods longer than 10 days.