HC Deb 07 November 1962 vol 666 cc960-1
23. Mr. Awbery

asked the Secretary of State for War how many local men have been dismissed, and how many are to be dismissed, in Malta as a consequence of the run-down of the War Department in Malta; and what steps he is taking to find alternative employment for them.

Mr. Profumo

Thirty-five Maltese civilians are being discharged this month. There will inevitably be further discharges, but the actual numbers have not yet been decided: they will, however, be on a smaller scale than those announced for the Royal Navy.

I understand from my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies, that the question of further employment for those no longer required by the Services is a matter for the Government of Malta.

Mr. Awbery

Is the Minister aware that the chief representative of the United Kingdom Government in Malta recently stated to a Press conference that by the end of 1964, 3,500 men will be thrown out of employment by our three Services? If it is the responsibility of our Government to dismiss these 3,500 men, is it not our responsibility also to find work for these redundant men?

Mr. Profumo

So far, the Army has been responsible for only thirty-five people being discharged and, as I have said, further discharges are likely to be many less than for the Royal Navy. I cannot add to the Answer which I have given.