Control Artificer (Weapons)

HC Deb 17 May 1961 vol 640 cc1350-1

12. Captain Litchfield

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the increased complexity of control mechanisms for weapons, he proposes to introduce a greater degree of specialisation in the artificer branches.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

Yes, Sir. We are about to introduce a new category of artificer to be known as control artificer (weapons). They will gradually take over the electronic and light mechanical engineering duties on weapons and control systems now done by electrical and ordnance artificers.

Captain Litchfield

Does my hon. Friend agree that this will improve efficiency and the career structure of these artificer ratings and eventually their prospects of skilled employment outside the Service?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

Yes, I think it will. It is a higher degree of specialisation in a very specialist field. The training we give them is absolutely first-rate and serves the Navy extremely well.

Mr. Willis

Are these artificers to get any different wages or promotion than other artificers?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

No. They will rank pari passu with other artificers.