§ Mr. Kenneth Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what instructions he has given his Department on the numbers permitted to attend visits or other functions paid for by his Department; and whether he has sought reduction in the cost of such official visits.
§ Sir George YoungCivil servants attend public visits and other functions when this is essential to the efficient execution of official business. The numbers involved are carefully scrutinised to ensure that they are the minimum consistent with the 183W nature of the business to be conducted. Guidance to all staff of the Department reminds them of the importance of avoiding unnecessary journeys and of using the most cost-effective means of travel for those which are necessary. Existing arrangements for controlling and monitoring expenditure in this field are already under review with a view to strengthening them.