HC Deb 29 June 1981 vol 7 cc259-60W
Mr. John Garrett

asked the Minister for the Civil Service what staff reductions are likely to be made from the ending of Her Majesty's Stationery Office's operation of common service reprographic units; and what reduction is planned in Her Majesty's Stationery Office reprographic services.

Mr. Hayhoe

This will depend on the outcome of a review which is being made of the size and shape of Her Majesty's Stationery Office reprographic business.

Mr. John Garrett

asked the Minister for the Civil Service by what percentage the staff of Her Majesty's Stationery Office is to be reduced, compared with the general reduction in Civil Service employment.

Mr. Hayhoe

This is yet to be decided.

Mr. John Garrett

asked the Minister for the Civil Service if Her Majesty's Stationery Office reprographic units have been instructed not to negotiate long-term contracts with customers for their services and not to proceed with capital investment.

Mr. Hayhoe

Long-term contracts are not being sought pending the outcome of a major review which is being made of the size and shape of Her Majesty's Stationery Office reprographic business. Capital expenditure is not, however, ruled out when this is necessary to maintain services to Government Departments.

Mr. John Garrett

asked the Minister for the Civil Service to what extent outside contractors have replaced Her Majesty's Stationery Office reprographic units stationed in Departments; and what has been the resulting cost saving.

Mr. Hayhoe

I am not aware of any such transfer of work.

Mr. John Garrett

asked the Minister for the Civil Service if she is satisfied that the manpower ceilings on its activities are not preventing Her Majesty's Stationery Office from competing for potentially profitable business.

Mr. Hayhoe

Broadly, yes.