Written question asked by Angela Watkinson (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 effect of public spending increases on levels of central Government staffing. (Failed OPQ). - Inc figures.

Answer: Angela Watkinson: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what assessment he has made of the effect of public spending increases on levels of central Government staffing. [213439] Mr. Boateng: Government are committed to increased investment in health, education and criminal justice services, allowing for up to 250,000 new staff by 2008 to help deliver these key front line services. At the same time, the Government remains committed to achieving over £20 billion of efficiency savings, as identified by the Gershon Review. In all, this will lead to a gross reduction of 84,000 civil service administrative and support posts across UK Government Departments.

Secondary information