HC Deb 20 June 1977 vol 933 c368W
Mr. Corbett

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what was the total number of civil servants involved, and at what salary and administrative costs, in the feasibility study of an earnings-related contribution and benefits system for the self-employed; when it was discontinued; and what estimate was made of the additional staff, cost and time needed to complete the study.

Mr. Orme

The working group engaged on the feasibility study consisted of 10 officers of assistant secretary and principal grade from my Department and the Inland Revenue. Their work was on a part-time basis and involved both group meetings and individual activities. Supporting staff were used wherever necessary, and consultations took place on various occasions with other staff within the Departments. A steering group of senior officers from interested Departments had oversight of the study. The total number of civil servants involved in one way or another, and the time spent by them on the study together with the consequential salary and administrative costs, could not be ascertained without disproportionate expense. The study was discontinued in July 1976; no estimate was made of the additional staff, cost and time needed to complete the study.