HC Deb 17 December 1925 vol 189 c1689W
Mr. B. SMITH

asked the Minister of Pensions what is the personnel of the committees which, on receipt of the letter from the Prime Minister urging the greatest possible economy in his Department with a view to reducing the Estimate for the year 1926–27, he set up to consider what reductions could be effected in the cost of pensions, treatment, and allowances, and to consider what reduction, if any, could be made in the establishment; and whether the committee dealing with the establishment includes officers other than those responsible for the grading and number of the present staff?

Major TRYON

The hon. Member has been misinformed. No committee has been appointed to consider reductions in the cost of pensions, treatment, and allowances. Two committees have been set up with duties definitely limited to consideration of the possibility of further administrative economies, the first committee dealing with reduction of establishment and the second with simplification of procedure and the elimination of unnecessary services. These committees consist of responsible officials of the Department. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.