Written question asked by Andrew MacKay (Conservative) on Monday, 31 January 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 February 2005. It was answered by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Thursday, 3 February 2005 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, what assessment he has made of the influence of central Government staffing levels on the level of taxation. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Mackay: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the influence of central Government staffing levels on the level of taxation. [213438] Mr. Boateng: The Government have delivered sustained increases in public spending in order to deliver significant improvements in public services. As part of this, we expect to see an increase in the size of the front line service delivery work force--in particular for key public services like health and education. As part of the Government's Efficiency Programme, Departments are implementing reductions in civil service posts, with extra resources being focused on the front line. The 2004 Spending Review set administration cost limits for Departments which will reduce central Government running costs as a proportion of total spending to a record low.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 430 c1052W;430 c1052-3W; 213438
Session: 2004-05
Subjects: Costs Civil servants Government departments Public expenditure Staff Treasury
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk