§ Mr. Dubsasked the right hon. Member for Middlesbrough, as representing the House of Commons Commission, when the staff inspector was appointed; what progress he has made since that date; when he will begin his inspection of posts; when this is expected to be completed; and in what form any recommendations arising will be made.
§ Mr. Arthur BottomleyMr. H. W. Bunkell took up his duties as staff inspector on 1 February 1982. An undertaking was given that he would not begin his formal work until terms of reference were agreed, and following negotiations final agreement was reached on 21 June. Further negotiations on the staff inspector's work programme are at an advanced stage. It is hoped that his 739W formal inspection of posts will not be long delayed although, with agreement, he has already carried out some work informally and has given advice. It is impossible to say when the programme will be complete. The staff inspector's recommendations are made to the Commission, though the factual content will, if possible, be the subject of agreement with the Department of the House concerned, and the trade union side or trade union.