HC Deb 03 July 1978 vol 953 cc19-20W
30. Mr. Hooley

asked the Minister for the Civil Service what effect cuts in the scientific manpower of the Civil Service have had an recruitment and promotion prospects.

Mr. Charles R. Morris

In terms of the number of vacancies advertised, recruitment in 1976 and 1977 was reduced to 40 per cent. and 45 per cent. respectively of the 1975 level. Promotion rates also appear to have been significantly lower in the science group and others, as Departments have been adjusting to the cuts, but in the longer term this factor should not significantly affect prospects.