§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Prime Minister why, between 1st October, 1964 and January, 1970, the number of Ministers increased from 90 to 100 and the salaries by 39 per cent. to £160,000 per annum; why his own office staff has increased from 45 in October, 1964 by 19 full-time and one part-time workers; and if he will now take action to reduce these figures.
§ The Prime MinisterThe size of the Administration is related to the Government's objectives. The change in the cost of Ministerial salaries is mainly accounted for by the increase in the level of salaries implemented on 1st April, 1965, which followed, but, in the case of Ministers, halved, the increases recommended by the Committee on the Remuneration of Ministers and Members of Parliament. The increase in the number of staff at No. 10 Downing Street reflects the substantial increase in work done under the present Administration.