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Written Answers
18 DECEMBER 1987
The report also recommends development of standards for variable traffic signs so that the potential of these can be fully exploited in today's conditions. We accept this recommendation.
I would like to make it clear that the report does not recommend the replacement of traditional fingerpost signs on minor rural roads where traffic is light and speeds are low. These and other similar historic signs can be a valuable enhancement of the local environment where they are compatible with modern traffic conditions.
We consider that the improvements and changes needed can be implemented without imposing an undue burden on local authorities if phased in with other expenditure which will be needed anyway to establish and renew signs. The report envisages a 10-year programme of implementation involving about £1 million a year extra expenditure by local authorities but at this stage we consider it premature to specify a timetable for completion of the action arising.
We will be happy to consider any comments which anyone may have on the outstanding recommendations of the report and the views of the local authority associations on cost implications will be particularly welcome. It would be helpful if these could be submitted by Monday 29 February 1988.
PRIME MINISTER
Lawyers (Civil Service)
Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Prime Minister what steps she is taking to ensure that Government lawyers are included in key policy-making decisions.
The Prime Minister: It is for Ministers to seek legal advice from within the Government legal service on these matters.
Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Prime Minister how many vacancies for qualified lawyers have arisen in the Civil Service over the past year; how many have been filled; and what information she has on the reasons for the shortfall.
The Prime Minister: In the period 1 January 1987 to 30 November 1987, 104 vacancies for lawyers arose in the Government legal service and appointments were offered to 49 applicants.
The position in the Crown prosecution service is more complex, as the total complement of lawyers was increased during the relevant period. On 1 December 1986 there were 363 vacancies. In the period ending 30 November 1987 a further 306 vacancies arose, of which 178 were newly created posts and 128 resulted from retirements, resignations and deaths. In the same period, 180 vacant posts were filled, leaving 489 vacant on 30 November 1987.
Increasing demand for the services of lawyers has stimulated competition for lawyers of the quality required by the Government legal service and the Crown prosecution service.
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Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Prime Minister what assessment she has made of the effects on the work of Government Departments of unfilled vacancies among lawyers in Government service.
The Prime Minister: Unfilled vacancies result in increased work loads for members of the Government legal service, and it is the Government's policy to fill these vacancies as soon as possible.
Hong Kong
Mr. Parry: To ask the Prime Minister what representations she received from the recent delegation from Hong Kong concerning direct elections and the joint declaration; what response she has made; and if she will make a statement.
The Prime Minister: I have received a letter from the recent delegation from Hong Kong and a reply will be sent in due course.
Civil Servants
Mr. Dalyell: To ask the Prime Minister what assessment she has made of the extent of the loss of confidence and self-respect amongst civil servants, referred to in the speech by Sir Robert Armstrong at the recent seminar organised by the Royal Institute of Public Administration; to what factors she attributes this lack of confidence and self-respect; what steps are being taken to alleviate the problem; and if she will make a statement.
The Prime Minister: Sir Robert Armstrong's remarks were made in a talk in which his main concern was to describe all that has been achieved in terms of improvements of management and efficiency in the Civil Service, and to praise the dedication and loyalty with which these changes have been carried through. As he said, there is and always will be more to do, as needs change and systems develop. But I warmly endorse his statement that we have in this country a Civil Service which is second to none in professionalism and integrity, and which, by virtue of accepting and giving effect to these changes, is entitled to the recognition that it is also a Civil Service second to none in efficiency and effectiveness.
Early of Leven
Mr. Wilson: To ask the Prime Minister if she will advise Her Majesty The Queen to terminate the appointment of the Early of Leven as Lord Lieutenant of Nairnshire.
The Prime Minister: The nature of the communication between the Prime Minister and the Sovereign on such matters is confidential and is never disclosed.
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