HC Deb 25 June 1947 vol 439 c422
28. Mrs. Middleton

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what use has been made of the electric cable which had been reeved, clipped, and connected to H.M.S. "Terrible" at Devonport and which, under a recent order, consequent upon alterations of specifications, was removed.

Mr. Walter Edwards

The cable removed from H.M.S. "Terrible" will be used as far as possible in other ships and shore establishments.

Mrs. Middleton

Is my hon. Friend aware that the cable could have been salvaged, but that was not done, and will he please explain to the House why this wanton wastage is allowed in the dockyards, and what he proposes to do in order to stop it?

Mr. Edwards

I cannot see where the question of wanton wastage comes into it. We say that we shall use the cable as far as possible in other ships and establishments, and what cannot be used will be handed over to salvage.

Mrs. Middlton

Is the Civil Lord aware that the cable was cut into short lengths which it is not possible to use again and that rewinding could have taken place, salvaging a great part of it, if care had been taken in giving orders to that effect?

Mr. Edwards

If my hon. Friend likes to give me details of the allegations made, I will go into them carefully for her, but my advice up to now is that there has been no misuse of this cable at all.