HC Deb 08 July 1953 vol 517 c1237
40. Mr. Albu

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty when the Deputy Superintendent (industrial) appointed to Chatham Dockyard commenced his duties.

The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. Wingfield Digby)

This officer will take up his duties at Chatham on 15th July; he is at present attached to the headquarters of the Director of Dockyards in order to prepare himself for these duties.

Mr. Albu

Does the hon. Gentleman remember that on 6th May he informed me that this appointment had been made? Is this not another example of the extraordinary delay in business in the Admiralty?

Mr. Digby

Surely the hon. Member will be aware that it was necessary for this officer, who had important duties before, to hand over properly to another person and then to prepare himself for his new task?

Mr. Albu

But the Admiralty has had plenty of time to consider the recommendation made by the Select Committee two years ago, and even their reply has been in the hands of the House now for some months.

Mr. Digby

It was necessary to hand over these duties and also to find new office accommodation, since this is a new task. I think there has been all reasonable speed with regard to this appointment.