asked the Minister of Aviation 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 Department decreased by 106 between 1st October, 1964 and 1st April, 1966; exact figures for the dates mentioned by the hon. Member are not available. In addition, 2,180 staff were seconded to the British Airports Authority on 1st April, 1966. I do not expect any considerable change in numbers during the next six months.