§ Mr. Fieldasked the right hon. Member for Middlesbrough, as representing the House of Commons Commission, what progress has been made on the grading review of the House of Commons staff; whether the staff side will have the opportunity to submit comments on the draft report; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Arthur BottomleyThe consultants engaged on the grading review commenced their examination on the staffing structure in October 1979. Frequent discussions on procedures and possible revised gradings between offical and trade union representatives and the consultants have been held since that date. In view of the lapse of time since the review was started, which greatly exceeds the original estimate, the Commission last week asked the consultants to bring these discussions to an end and to submit their final report in mid-June. When the final report is received, it will be for the Commission to decide what furher consultations are necessary.