HC Deb 28 June 1950 vol 476 cc2276-7
38. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether the man dismissed some months ago from the Rosyth dockyard for his political views has yet been found alternative employment; and, if so, what is the nature of such employment.

Mr. W. Edwards

This man was recently offered alternative employment outside the yard. It has, however, proved unsuitable and endeavours are now being made to find him work with another Government Department.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Minister aware that this case has been pending since about the middle of March, and since that time he has been for the bulk of the period on paid leave? Can the Minister tell us how long this paid leave is going to be given to these displaced Communists?

Mr. Edwards

I am quite aware that the gentleman concerned has been on paid leave for some time. By that we are carrying out the procedure which has been laid down in cases such as this, which is to endeavour to obtain alternative employment for such people. If we cannot find it for this man, he will have to be discharged.

Earl Winterton

What sense does it make to dismiss a man because he is a Communist and find him employment in another Government office? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of what is going on in the world at the present time?

Mr. Edwards

There is nothing new in this. It was stated quite clearly to the House last year that if we found persons who held Communist views employed in positions which gave them access to work of a secret nature, we were going to try to find them work elsewhere.

Mr. Hamilton

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of this answer, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment.