HC Deb 02 June 1980 vol 985 cc573-4W
Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many of the non-industrial staff of his Department were absent without authority on 14 May; how many of these hold politically sensitive posts; and if he will take steps to transfer those officials in the latter category to work where opposition to Government policy does not matter.

Mr. David Howell

Of the 1,250 non-industrial staff in my Department, 33 were absent without authority on 14 May. None occupy politically sensitive posts and their transfer to other work does not therefore arise.