asked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what is the total establishment of weights and measures inspectors in England and in Wales, respectively ; how far the service in each country is below establishment ; and which areas suffer the greatest shortage of staff.

The question of establishment is a matter for each local authority and no national figures are available. There were, however, 1,151 weights and measures inspectors in post in England and 90 in Wales on 31st December 1973. Authorities are free to appoint whatever staff they need. The considerable reduction in the number of weights and measures authorities will lead to more effective use of professional staff.