§ 44. Mr. Harry GreenwayTo ask the Minister for the Civil Service how many civil service jobs are now performed by agencies; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RentonMore than 82,000 civil servants are working in the 34 "next steps" agencies now established. The Chancellor announced earlier this month that the Inland Revenue and Customs and Excise Departments are also to operate fully on "next steps" lines. This, together with the further 32 agency candidates which have been announced, covers over 280,000 staff.
§ 45. Mr. FavellTo ask the Minister for the Civil Service whether the creation of "next steps" agencies will affect the numbers employed in the civil service.
§ Mr. Renton"Next steps" is designed to produce a better-managed and more efficient civil service responsive to the needs of Ministers and the public.