Hutchison Committee (Recommendations)

HC Deb 20 July 1960 vol 627 cc470-1

13. Mr. Mayhew

asked the Secretary of State for War how far he accepts the recommendations of the Hutchison Committee.

Mr. H. Fraser

My right hon. Friend accepts the recommendations subject to consultation with other interested parties. I would refer the hon. Member to the last paragraph of the Answer to him on 15th July.

Mr. Mayhew

Is it not a little precipitate to accept these recommendations and at the same time to admit that no consultations have taken place with interested parties? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that some of these issues are of great importance to the people of Woolwich? Can he assure me that no action will be taken until he has consulted all those involved?

Mr. Fraser

Everyone will be consulted. During the course of the inquiry, people like the L.C.C., the Woolwich Council, trade unions and others, although they did not wish to give evidence, were consulted. The whole object of the inquiry was to consult local people, as is set out in the Report.