HC Deb 28 July 1975 vol 896 cc398-9W
Mr. Michael Latham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what factors he attributes the increase in administrative costs from £277,424 in 1973–74 to £534,550 in 1974–75, other than the £45,878 referred to in his reply to the hon. Member for Melton on 21st July, of the Central Council for Agricultural and Horticultural Co-operation; and if he will bring forward proposals designed to ensure that the ratio of administrative costs to grants equates more closely to the levels of 1970–71 in future years.

Mr. Bishop

The increases in the administrative costs of the central council between 1973–74 and 1974–75 are attributable to higher salaries and other costs, increased activity in promotional and other work on marketing under the arrangements announced on 21st January 1974, and certain non-recurring expenditure. The figures are:

visaged in the Question. There is no direct relationship between the administrative costs of the central council and the grant paid. Fewer staff are now engaged full-time in grant work than in 1970–71.

Mr. Michael Latham

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to what factors he attributes the annual increase in the staffing establishment of the Central Council for Agricultural and Horticultural Co-operation in each year since 1970; and what is the maximum authorised establishment for the current year.

Mr. Bishop

The increase in council staff since 1970 is attributable to the greater emphasis on promotion of cooperation since 1971; an increase in the management services staff to monitor grants given; and the creation of a Marketing Unit under the arrangements announced on 21st January 1974. The main increases year by year have been:

1970–71 Management Services Officer appointed.
1971–73 Five regional co-operation officers appointed.
1973–74 Regional co-operation officer; second management service officer; and higher executive officer (accounts) appointed.
1974–75 Four Marketing Unit staff appointed.

Ministry approval is required for all new posts and its decision is taken after consultation with its complementing officers and, where necessary, those of the Civil Service Department. The appointment of three further staff is under consideration against which two posts are expected to be saved elsewhere.