HC Deb 27 May 1936 vol 312 cc1995-6
21. Mr. MATHERS

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he can now make a statement regarding the active use of Rosyth Dockyard and Port Edgar?

Mr. LINDSAY

It has been decided to provide for the increased requirements of naval training by building at Rosyth a combined boys' training establishment and training establishment for artificer apprentices. There is no intention at present of re-opening Port Edgar or the dockyard at Rosyth.

Mr. MATHERS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that previous answers on this point have raised the hope that more extensive use was to be made of Rosyth dockyard and of the destroyer base at Port Edgar? Is there no foundation for that idea, and when will it be possible for the Government make a statement on the more extensive use of these places?

Mr. LINDSAY

I do not think that any previous answer would justify raising the hopes of the hon. Gentleman.

Miss HORSBRUGH

Does my hon. Friend realise from the questions that Scotland is wholly in favour of the extension of the Naval programme?