§ Mr. EvansTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many of the reductions in the numbers of civil servants in his Department announced in the spending review will be of special advisers. [185481]
§ Mr. BoatengSpecial advisers are appointed by Ministers, with the approval of the Prime Minister, in accordance with Article 3(2) of the Civil Service Order in Council 1995 (as amended).
Spending Review 2004 published planned reductions in civil service and public administration posts of 84,150 by 2008, including the redeployment of 13,550 to front line posts/activities. Details of these reductions are a matter for individual Departments. Progress on meeting the efficiency targets will be publicly reported so that the Government are accountable for the results. Departments will report progress through their departmental reports and on their website.