HC Deb 15 July 1964 vol 698 c1180
13. Mr. Turner

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is being done in the Royal Air Force to ensure the most economic use of skilled technical tradesmen.

Mr. H. Fraser

I have this very much in mind. Special units study all current and new equipments introduced to evolve the easiest and most economical methods of maintaining them. The new trade structure introduced this year is giving technical tradesmen broader trade knowledge and experience so that they can be employed more flexibly. As a result, there has been a saving in the variety of training courses needed and of key manpower.

Mr. Turner

In view of the growing complexity of modern aircraft, is it not possible for more repairs to be done centrally, say, for the V-bomber force or other commands?

Mr. Fraser

Yes, Sir: we are doing this in quite a big way. The major servicing of the V-bombers, for instance, has been centralised, and this means quite a large saving running into many thousands of pounds. We are pursuing this policy as far as we can.