HC Deb 06 December 1979 vol 975 c328W
Mr. Brotherton

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what reductions in staffing levels he expects in his Department (a) in the current year and (b) next year, consequent upon the recent White Paper on public expenditure.

Mr. David Mitchell

The adjusted cash limits for the present year resulted in a reduction of 293 in the approved staff level of the Department. The policy changes on regional and selective financial assistance are expected to save 31 staff in the current year and 38 in the next financial year. Further reductions depend upon the review of the size and cost of the Civil Service, the result of which was announced today by my hon. Friend the Minister of State, Civil Service Department.