asked the Minister for the Public Service the numbers of people recruited for the public service in each of the years from 1975 to 1985, inclusive.

The Civil Service is the only area of the public service where I currently have statutory responsibility for recruitment. The table which follows sets out the numbers assigned to positions as a result of competitions held by the Civil Service Commissioners in each of the years 1975-85.

Recruitment from Civil Service Commission Competitions 1975-1985

Notes:

1. Prior to 1984 the table includes recruitment to the Department of Posts and Telegraphs.

2. Prior to 1984 it is not possible from existing records to calculate how many did not accept assignments offered. The 1984 and 1985 figures are for actual appointments. The earlier figures includes those assigned to positions but did not take up duty.