HC Deb 20 June 1979 vol 968 cc549-50W
Mr. Adley

asked the Paymaster General what precise steps he is taking to uncover, and thereafter to eliminate, waste in the nationwide organisation of his Department for which he is ultimately responsible; and if, in due course, he will seek to make a statement in the House thereon.

Mr. Maude

Apart from a small caller office in London, the whole of my Department is located in Crawley, Sussex.

For many years my Department has taken advantage of modern methods to increase efficiency with the result that the work load of the Department, which is entirely demand-related, has increased since 1956 by 300 per cent. with an increase in staff of only about 50 per cent. This has been achieved by the effective use of office machines and computers, coupled with a continuing review of staffing levels by a small group of O & M specialists.

In spite of the extent of the past economies the officers of my Department are co-operating fully with me in a fresh examination of the work load and working methods to see whether there are any additional savings which can be contributed towards the present economy drive.

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