§ Mr. Rookerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what procedure exists for discussing staffing levels with the trade unions representing Inland Revenue staff.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonFormal discussions between the Board of Inland Revenue and the unions take place regularly as part of the normal proceedings of the departmental and sectional Joint Whitley Council. In addition, there are frequent ad hoc meetings and discussions,274W both formal and informal; these are arranged as necessary at the instance of either the official or the staff side of the Whitley Council, or of individual unions.
§ Mr. Rookerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the introduction of a lower rate band of income tax would require an increase in Inland Revenue staff; and, if so, how many and over what period of time.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonWhether an actual net increase in Inland Revenue staff was required would depend on the net effect on staffing needs of the Budget measures taken as a whole. The staff costs of the introduction of a lower rate band, as such, would be in the region of 1,050 man years in the first year and about 1,300 man years in the following years.
§ Mr. Rookerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many staff the Inland Revenue is short of establishment; and when he expects the numbers to be brought up to establishment.
§ Mr. Robert SheldonAt 3rd January there was a shortfall of 490. I hope that this will be reduced within the next few months.