asked the Secretary of State for Wales what increase or decrease there was in the staff of the Department under his control in the period 16th October, 1964 to 15th April, 1966; and what increase or decrease he anticipates in the period 16th April, 1966 to 15th October, 1966.

The staff of the new Welsh Office was drawn from a number of Departments from which responsibilities were transferred and a figure for 16th October, 1964 cannot be given. There were 438 in post on 1st April, 1966 and there may be about 25 more in post by 16th October, 1966.