asked the Minister of Works what inquiries he has made as to the relative office accommodation afforded to civil servants and those employed in private offices; and whether he is satisfied that the utmost use is being made of Government office accommodation.

My technical officers are in constant touch with business concerns and they find that standards vary widely, as they do for Government staffs, depending on the type of work done. In present circumstances Government office accommodation will have to be used more economically and arrangements are in hand which should result in a saving of space.

As there has been a waste of space for some time, can the right hon. Gentleman say what percentage reduction in Government accommodation is proposed under this rearrangement?

I do not think it has been proved that there has been a waste of space for a long time. There have been alterations and decreases in Government staffs, which have meant rearrangements, and a lower standard of accommodation will probably be arranged to meet the need.

Is it not the case that much of the accommodation provided by Government Departments is grossly inadequate and out of date, in comparison with that afforded by good types of outside businesses?

In a number of cases I have inspected recently the accommodation for Government servants has been very inferior to that provided for those in some private businesses.

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many Government Departments have voluntarily accepted less space to meet the present situation?

Yes, Sir, and I am thankful for their co-operation.

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied that large areas of residential accommodation in Regent's Park should be occupied by Government offices?

I am satisfied that that type of accommodation should be used in preference to other types of accommodation which might be obtained. There is difficulty in finding the necessary accommodation for Government staffs in the London area.