§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Trade why, in view of the Government's incomes policy, the salaries and related employment costs of the English Tourist Board for the year ended 31st March 1976 rose to £742,884 from £537,264 in 1975; and what action he proposes to take to reduce this form of Government expenditure.
§ Mr. MeacherStaff salaries and related employment costs for the board are linked to the Civil Service scales and thus to the Government's incomes policy. The number of staff was increased during the year ended 31st March 1975 from 114 to 141 and to 150 by 31st March 1976 in order to enable them to undertake the voluntary accommodation registration scheme, strengthen the board's research and information services and help with tourist project assistance for development areas. I am examining the possible need for economies consistent with consolidating our tourist drive.