§ Mr. AmessTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the current limit on flexible working hours in(a) 417W the Department of Trade and Industry, (b) social security offices and (c) the Department of Health; what it has been each year since 1983; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BrookeThe current limit on flexible working hours in the non-industrial Civil Service is determined by operational need and is subject to the overriding principle that flexibility should be achieved without adverse effect on the overall efficiency of Departments or on service to the public. All non-industrial civil servants are required to complete their conditioned hours within specified periods. Questions about the operation of specific flexible working hours schemes within Departments should be addressed to the appropriate Minister.