asked the Minister of National Insurance how many persons are employed at the Blackpool branch of his Department dealing with old-age pensions; and if he is satisfied with the organisation and administration thereof.

On 30th June. 2,269 persons were employed at Blacknool in the administration of the old age, widows' and orphans' pensions, of approximately four million people. As regards the second part of the Question, the decision to introduce last October the new pension provisions in the absence of a system of local offices, placed a great strain on the organisation of all three central pension offices of my Department, but particularly on the Blackpool office. I am satisfied that the necessary measures have been taken and will continue to be taken with the help of the local organisation of the Assistance Board to overcome the resulting difficulties and adapt the organisation to meet the requirements of the new scheme short of setting up the network of local offices, which must wait until next year.

As the right hon. Gentleman says he is satisfied, could he say how many old age pensions are still outstanding?

If the hon. Member will put down a Question, I will give him an answer.

Is it not a fact that they are very numerous?

No. I think we have made very good progress indeed

asked the Minister of National Insurance how many employees found redundant at the Royal Ordnance Factory, Euxton, Lancashire, are now employed in the Blackpool branch of his Department.

The number on 30th June was 48.