HC Deb 30 November 1964 vol 703 cc18-9
23. Mr. McMaster

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what plans the Government have for the construction of additions to, or replacements of, warships in Her Majesty's Navy; and what criteria will be employed by Her Majesty's Government in deciding where such orders will be placed.

Mr. Healey

We intend to follow the normal practice of placing orders for ships by competitive tender whenever possible. In this way, all firms capable of building the ships, including those in areas of underemployment, have equal opportunity to win the contracts.

Mr. McMaster

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind when placing these contracts the magnificent record of Harland and Wolff in two world wars and since in building ships of every class from frigates to aircraft carriers?

Mr. Healey

I shall bear that fact in mind, together with all other relevant considerations.

Mr. William Hamilton

Can my right hon. Friend say whether in placing these contracts any preferential treatment can be given to yards which happen to be in development districts?

Mr. Healey

I think the whole House will agree that it is the duty of the Ministry of Defence to ensure that the country gets the weapons it needs as good, as fast and as cheaply as possible, but experience has shown that it is possible to meet the needs of development districts consistent with these considerations.

Mr. Hay

Will the right hon. Gentleman address his mind to the first part of the Question? Can he tell us what plans the Government have for construction or additions to or replacement of warships? Will he bear in mind that in a celebrated speech at Plymouth on 17th December the Prime Minister promised a greatly increased naval shipbuilding programme, and that we should like to know what the Government have in mind?

Mr. Healey

I think you, Mr. Speaker, would agree that the business of the House would be accelerated if hon. Members would read the Order Paper. There is a Question on this subject to be asked by one of the hon. Friends of the hon. Member for Henley (Mr. Hay).