HC Deb 25 October 1950 vol 478 cc2782-3
33. Squadron Leader Burden

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction in the Medway towns at the Admiralty's decision not now to transfer H.M.S. "Ceres" to Chatham; that this decision is likely still further to increase unemployment in the area; and if he will take steps to have this decision reversed.

Mr. W. Edwards

There has been no decision in the Admiralty that H.M.S. "Ceres" should not be transferred to Chatham. The position is that the adaptation of the Royal Marine barracks to accommodate the "Ceres" involves a substantial amount of building work which has had to be considered in the light of the requirements of the Defence programme. The decision has now been taken that the work involved in adapting the premises for H.M.S. "Ceres" should proceed. I must make it clear, however, that it will be some time before the buildings at Chatham will be ready to accommodate H.M.S. "Ceres."

Squadron Leader Burden

May I take it that the "Ceres" is going to Chatham as soon as those buildings are ready?

Mr. Edwards

That is right.