§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity when the General Branch of Her Majesty's Factory Inspectorate was last at, or within 3 per cent. of, a full complement; how many applications were received in the first competition for Class IIA inspectors; how many of these applicants were called for interview; and how many have been offered and have accepted appointments.
§ Mr. FernyhoughInformation on the first part of the Question is not available. 87 applications were received in the first competition for Class IIA inspectors; 13 applicants were called for interview; 6 have accepted appointments.
§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity what action she proposes to overcome the shortage of 85 inspectors of factories; and what is her Department's long-term policy on this matter.
§ Mr. FernyhoughIt is proposed to arrange further open competitions to meet the present shortage of factory inspectors. My Department's long-term policy on this matter is under examination.
§ Mr. William Priceasked the Secretary of State for Employment and Productivity if she will consider making opportunities available for married women who were formerly employed in Her Majesty's Factory Inspectorate to return to the Inspectorate on a part-time or full-time basis.
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§ Mr. FernyhoughYes. Opportunities already exist for this on a full-time basis.