HC Deb 05 February 1990 vol 166 cc445-6W
Mr. Macdonald

To ask the Lord President of the Council (1) how many research assistants are currently employed by hon. Members;

(2) how many secretaries are currently employed by hon. Members.

Sir Geoffrey Howe

The total number of persons employed by hon. Members and paid directly from the Members' office costs allowance is currently 1,270. Since job titles ascribed to Members' employees vary considerably and do not conveniently fit into the categories specified, it is not possible to provide a meaningful breakdown.