HL Deb 04 August 1980 vol 412 cc1322-4WA
Lord CHELWOOD

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their estimate of the gross annual saving that might result from the proposal to end the need for prior approval of grant-aided agriculture and horticulture works, etc; and what is their estimate of the extra annual cost of the consequential need to inspect such works before a grant is paid.

Lord SANDYS

When the full saving of 400 posts is achieved annual expenditure will be reduced by about £2 million (at 1979 prices). This saving allows for all necessary procedures, including inspections to be carried out under the new scheme as they are under the present ones.

House adjourned at eleven minutes before six o'clock.