§ 29. Mr. Wrigglesworthasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many staff will be affected by the decision to cancel the 1976 census; and what consultation took place with the staff side before the decision was taken.
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§ Mrs. CastleThe appointments of about 100 staff who had been engaged temporarily by the census offices for preparatory work are being terminated. About 40 staff holding temporary promotion will revert in rank and in addition it may be necessary to retire about 25 who have reached the minimum retiring age.
The decision to cancel the 1976 Census was taken in the context of Budget economies and therefore there was no prior consultation with staff sides, but they are being fully consulted about the subsequent effects on staff.