HC Deb 09 February 1961 vol 634 cc601-2
12. Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what reexamination there has been in the last two years of the level at which delegation of staff numbers begins at the Admiralty; and with what results.

Sir E. Boyle

None. I assume that the hon. and learned Member has in mind one of the recommendations of Sub-Committee B of the Select Committee on Estimates last Session, concerning the Admiralty headquarters organisation. This recommendation was accepted with the rider that examination of levels of delegation would require to take account of the circumstances of the other two Service Departments. My right hon. and learned Friend has not yet completed preliminary consideration of what would be the best arrangements for the Service Departments.

Mr. Mallalieu

Would the hon. Gentleman agree that it costs very much more to employ in the Admiralty a serving naval officer than it does to employ a civil servant in the same job? Is it not, therefore, desirable to have this matter expedited and an inquiry put forward as soon as possible?

Sir E. Boyle

I quite agree that, of course, we want to look into the matter carefully, but I think that examination of levels of delegation must take into account all the circumstances in other Service Departments, and I would much rather see this matter looked at fully than that a false and facile conclusion should be arrived at.