§ Mr. Kenneth Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Employment what instructions he has given his Department on the numbers permitted to attend public visits or other functions paid for by his Department; and whether he has sought reduction in the cost of such official visits.
§ Mr. MayhewMy officials attend public visits and other functions when this is essential to the efficient execution of their official business. While no specific instructions exist, the numbers involved in these visits are carefully scrutinised to ensure that they are the minimum required to conduct official business efficiently.
Management are well aware of the need for economy at all times, and are reminded by the use of notices of the importance of avoiding unnecessary journeys and of using the cheapest and most effective mode of travel available.