HC Deb 05 May 1971 vol 816 cc368-9W
37. Mr. Kimball

asked the Minister for the Civil Service at what level he proposes to contain the growth of the Civil Service; and what scope he sees for effecting a reduction.

Mr. David Howell

It remains our objective to contain the growth of the Civil Service and if possible to reduce it. But reducing the size of the Civil Service is essentially a matter of reducing the tasks given to it. What we can achieve will depend on policy changes which are in process of examination and implementation.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister for the Civil Service whether he will make a further statement giving particulars to show to what extent since 18th June, 1970, the Government's policy of reducing the number and costs of the Civil Service administration is being implemented; to what extent he estimates the introduction of the value-added tax will assist or impede this policy; and by how much the costs of the Civil Service will rise or fall on the implementation of the value-added tax.

Mr. David Howell

I have nothing further to add to the replies given on 17th March to my hon. Friend the Member for Worcestershire, South (Sir G. Nabarro) and earlier today to my hon. Friends the Members for Hampstead (Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg) and Gainsborough (Mr. Kimball).

We are not yet able to assess accurately the impact of value-added tax on the size of the Civil Service pending final decisions on the scope and coverage of the tax.