HC Deb 05 March 1979 vol 963 cc433-4W
Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what proportion of the current budget of the Health and Safety Executive is devoted to public relations; and what is the salary range of staff employed in the public relations department.

Mr. John Grant

The Health and Safety Executive does not have a public relations department. Twelve staff are employed on first line information work in a press office. In 1979–80 the cost of these, including accommodation, office services and HQ overheads is estimated to be approximately £140,000. There are seven grades of staff concerned and the salary range is from £2,600 to £9,200.

Mr. Cryer

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how many staff are employed by the Health and Safety Executive on public relations; and if he will define the role and task of the public relations department of the Health and Safety Executive.

Mr. John Grant

I am informed by the chairman of the Health and Safety Commission that 30 members of the Health and Safety Executive's Directorate of Information and Advisory Services include among their duties such functions as the production of films, exhibitions and relations with the press and television companies.

I have asked the chairman of the Health and Safety Commission to write to the hon. Member giving details about the information and advisory service.

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