asked the Minister of Labour how many military Service personnel were dealt with by his Department for the first three months of 1947; and what were the comparable figures for the first three months of 1940 and 1941.

The number called up in the first three months of 1947 was 51,000. The corresponding figures for 1940 and 1941 were 180,000 and 195,000.

Can the Minister say whether, in view of the figures he has given, he is taking steps to reduce the staff of his Ministry, which appears to be unduly large?

Yes, Sir. The staffs engaged on this work have been reduced, but, of course, they have been absorbed by being transferred to other Departments, where men have stayed on after reaching the retiring age.