HC Deb 21 March 1951 vol 485 cc2392-3
2. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware of the underemployment of large numbers of civilians at the 61 Maintenance Unit; and what steps he is taking to bring to an end the waste of labour involved.

Mr. A. Henderson

I am not aware of any underemployment of civilians at 61 Maintenance Unit, but if the hon. Member will let me have full particulars I will certainly have the matter investigated.

Mr. Shepherd

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman not realise that all the people in the surrounding district are convinced that there is under-employment? Is it not the case that when civilians are engaged on this kind of duty the establishment is invariably too large? Should not something be done about it?

Mr. Henderson

I have had a report on this matter, and the commanding officer states emphatically that all the civilian employees of the unit are fully employed on essential work. If, however, the hon. Gentleman will let me have evidence to the contrary, I will certainly have a further investigation made.

Mr. Shepherd

But is it not always the case that commanding officers say that their staff is fully employed? Does not the national interest demand that the right hon. and learned Gentleman should take a firm line in this matter?

Mr. Henderson

The commanding officer has made a statement and the hon. Gentleman has made a statement. The commanding officer is entitled to have the evidence supporting the statement of the hon. Gentleman.