MUCH has been made of the alleged increased in staffing and new posts within the local authority, and questions have been raised about the number of employees and, unfairly, our failure so far to provide a definitive figure.

Those with an insight into the way in which a multi-million pound operation functions knows that employee numbers change day by day as people retire, take maternity leave, transfer, leave etc.

However, Bury, like all local authorities, is required to publish its employee numbers by March 31 each year. In 2003 we had 6,960 employees; in 2002 we had 8,187, and in 2001 it was 8,225. That means we have fewer employees than two years ago.

In comparison with our Greater Manchester neighbours, we have the fourth lowest number of staff per 1,000 population.

COUNCILLOR TREVOR HOLT,

lead member,

human resources.