§ Mr. Berminghamasked the hon. Member for Berwick-upon-Tweed (Mr. Beith), as representing the House of Commons Commission, if, in the light of present pressures resulting from the volume of parliamentary questions tabled and problems with new technology, there are any plans to increase staffing levels in the office of the editorial Supervisor of the Vote; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BeithThe staff of the editorial Supervisor of the Vote was increased by two posts earlier this year, in part as a response to the steady increase in questions and early-day motions during recent years, and in part in expectation of additional work arising from the changeover to904W computerised printing. In the event, difficulties with the new technology have been greater than expected and there has also been some sickness among the staff concerned. These are temporary problems, which are being alleviated by the ad hoc employment of staff from other parts of the House service who are working overtime.