§ Mr. EDEasked the Minister of Pensions whether, seeing that he has stated that the medical records of the War have been completed by the statistical division, he can state what duties are performed by the 149 temporary staff engaged on the preparation of the medical records of the War at an estimated expenditure for the current financial year of £13,410, as shown in the vote for medical services in his Department; whether the expenditure on the preparation of these records was £17,263 in the year 1922–23; what will be the total expenditure on the preparation of these records; and when it is anticipated that the records will be completed?
§ Major TRYONIn addition to the sorting and indexing of the medical records, a large proportion of the staff has always been employed in supplying information only obtainable from these records to assist claimants to substantiate their claims as well as to enable the Ministry to verify their statements. There are also applications for information from the War Office, India Office and foreign embassies. The hon. Member will be glad to learn that the staff engaged in the War Record Section is now much reduced and is almost entirely engaged on the work of extracting, copying and forwarding information in answer to inquiries. The expenditure for the current financial year will, therefore, fall short of the amount2514W shown in the Estimates. As I informed the hon. Member on the 12th instant, I am not in a position to state the total cost without considerable investigation.
§ Sir E. STOCKTONasked the Minister of Pensions whether the Civil Service establishment of any temporary employés, other than those who have passed the examinations provided for by the Lytton Committee, is at present under consideration?
§ Major TRYONSo far as my Department is concerned the answer is in the negative.