§ Mr. John Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many representations he has received regarding
Year Estimated Income Estimated Expenditure Estimated Surplus/Deficit 1979 … … … … 12,047,000 12,691,000 -644,000 1980 … … … … 17,045,000 19,065,000 -2,020,000 The above figures are shown on an "accruals" basis, which is the normal convention for memorandum trading accounts. This means that fees are not credited to the account until the test is taken: because of the backlog of tests the higher fees will only begin to be reflected in the account about six months after they are introduced. In cash terms, the service is expected to break even in 1980–81.
§ Mr. Ernie Rossasked the Minister of Transport what was the number of driving examiners in Dundee in November 1979 and at the latest available date; how many new examiners have been recruited since November 1979 and are under training; and what other action has been taken to reduce the waiting lists.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeThere were five examiners at Dundee in November 1979. This has temporarly dropped to four, but a further examiner is due to take up post in March. Seventy-eight new examiners have been recruited nationally since 1 November 1979, of whom 26 are still under training.
The key to reducing delays is to recruit sufficient examiners to meet the current demand for tests and clear the accumu-
844Wthe proposal to change the arrangements for paying social security benefits.
§ Mrs. ChalkerI refer the right hon. and learned Gentleman to my right hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Penistone (Mr. McKay) on 14 February.