HC Deb 08 March 1961 vol 636 cc440-1
8. Miss Vickers

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether he will increase the intake of apprentices into the Admiralty service during the next financial year.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

Yes, Sir. The total programme for last year was 926 and in the coming (financial) year will be increased to 1,233. This is an over. all increase of 30 per cent.

Miss Vickers

Whilst thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask him whether these are to be spread over the country and whether the figure includes anyone from abroad?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

No, these increases are in the United Kingdom alone. The increase in Devonport will be from 273 for last year's programme to 360.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Does the Civil Lord agree that these young men will have to be highly trained and take a great interest in their work? In view of the increase in 'the numbers to be employed, will they be given some security about employment in the future?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I have been pressed in the House to try to increase the numbers above what we shall be able to employ afterwards. These figures are on the basis of the number of people we want for our dockyards.

Mr. P. Wells

What will the Chatham figure be?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

The Chatham figures are 197 in the current year's programme and 248 in next year's programme.