Bases

HC Deb 04 July 1956 vol 555 cc1302-4

4. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what other naval bases he proposes to close down in addition to that of Scapa Flow.

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

I have nothing to add, at present, to the reply which I gave to a similar Question by the hon. Member for Cardiff, South-East (Mr. Callaghan) on 20th June.

Mr. Hughes

If Scapa Flow is not safe, can the Minister tell us what is safe in this country; and can he say whether he proposes to base the Navy in the next war on Miami, Florida, St. Helena or the Seychelles?

7. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty the strategical reasons for abandoning the naval base at Scapa Flow.

Mr. Ward

I can only repeat the Answer I gave to the hon. Member for Cardiff, South-East (Mr. Callaghan) on 20th June, that we no longer see sufficient use for most of the naval installations in the Orkneys, either in peace or in war, to justify the expense of their retention.

Mr. Hughes

Would the hon. Gentleman tell us if we are justified in spending over £400 million on the Navy if it cannot even defend Scapa Flow?

Mr. Ward

The hon. Gentleman is constantly asking for reductions in defence expenditure. When we make one he must not complain.

8. Mr. Grimond

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he will ensure the closest co-ordination with other Departments over possible uses of the base installations at Lyness or Scapa Flow, and the maintenance of various services, such as ferries and water supply.

Mr. Wingfield Digby

Yes, Sir. I am in consultation with the Scottish Office and the other Departments concerned on these matters.

Mr. Grimond

While I know that the Admiralty is well aware of the difficulties which the islands will have to face, may I ask the hon. Gentleman if it will give us as long notice as it can of the actual run-down of personnel, as it comes to the Admiralty's attention?

Mr. Digby

Certainly we shall give as long notice as we can. The plan is being worked out. As soon as it is decided on we shall give as long notice as possible to the men concerned.