HC Deb 23 May 1980 vol 985 c475W
Mr. Onslow

asked the Secretary of State for Industry 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 Mitchell

About 150 non-industrial staff were absent on 14 May without authority. None of these are in posts of political significance and the question of transfer does not arise.