HC Deb 12 November 1953 vol 520 c67W
86. Mr. C. S. Taylor

asked the Minister of Agriculture the reason for the increase in personnel in his Department's establishment division II, from 1,420 in 1952–53 to 1,485 in 1953–54.

Sir T. Dugdale

The increased estimate was due partly to the need for more typing staff to deal with the new fertiliser subsidies and partly to an underestimate in the 1952–53 figure for messengers and cleaners. It has in fact been possible to reduce the staff in this Division below the estimate.

87. Mr. C. S. Taylor

asked the Minister of Agriculture the reason for the increase in personnel in his Department's Legal Division, from 79 in 1952–53 to 83 in 1953–54.

Sir T. Dugdale

The increase in the staff of my legal department has been necessary to carry out additional clerical work, mainly the recovery of debts under the Goods and Services Scheme.

92. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Agriculture why it is necessary to increase the number of staff, locally-engaged, abroad.

Sir T. Dugdale

The increase is only apparent, due to certain changes in the form of the Estimate. The number in post has, in fact, been reduced from 12 in December, 1951, to nine at the present date, with one further post vacant.