HC Deb 12 June 1974 vol 874 c545W
21. Mr. Graham Page

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is satisfied that the planning departments of local authorities are adequately staffed.

Mr. Charles R. Morris

Some local authorities may experience difficulties in adequately staffing their departments at certain levels, as Circular 74/73, issued when the right hon. Member had a responsibility for these matters, admitted.

59. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will make a statement on the staffing position of local authorities following reorganisation and, in particular, whether staff shortages in planning departments are causing difficulties.

Mr. John Silkin

At this stage it would be premature to make firm statements about the staffing position of local authorities as a whole. There are known to be shortages of staff of particular professions and in particular areas but recruitment is still in progress. As far as planning staff are concerned I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given today to the right hon. Member for Crosby (Mr. Page).