HC Deb 12 November 1953 vol 520 cc78-9W
Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Labour the qualifications and duties of the senior trainer, undifferentiated; and where he discharges these duties.

Sir W. Monckton

The senior trainer is responsible for the work of the trainers employed in connection with my Department's scheme of training within industry for supervisors. The qualifications of the present holder of the post include a number of years' experience of industry and of the working of the scheme in all its aspects. He is stationed in London but in the course of his duties may travel to any part of Great Britain. I am sending my hon. Friend a pamphlet which explains the scheme and its purpose.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Labour why the Statistics Department of his Department has increased its staff from 266 to 277 and its salary list from£136,900 to£150,870.

Sir W. Monckton

It was necessary to make provision for an increase of staff in the Statistics Department of the Ministry in the estimates for 1953–54, as compared with those for 1952–53, because of the extra work in that Department resulting from the Household Expenditure Inquiry. The increase in the salary list was caused partly by the increase in staff numbers and partly by increases due to pay awards, salary increments and the higher rates of National Insurance contributions.

Sir W. Darling

asked the Minister of Labour the principal items covered in the increased costs of his administration of£259,000.

Sir W. Monckton

Despite a continued reduction in staff,£216,000 out of the increased cost of£259,000 in administration shown in the Ministry's estimates for 1953–54 as compared with those for 1952–53 is attributable to increased salary costs because of pay awards, salary increments and the higher rates of National Insurance contributions. The remaining increase is due to additional provision in respect of travelling, etc., expenses owing to higher fares and rates of subsistence allowances.