HC Deb 12 May 1966 vol 728 cc582-3
33. Mr. Edward M. Taylor

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he will take to implement the Geddes Report on Shipbuilding.

Mr. Mason

I would refer to the reply given to the hon. Member for South Shields (Mr. Blenkinsop) on 28th April.

Mr. Taylor

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the estimates and recommendations of the Report are based on the assumption, in paragraph 68, that the naval shipbuilding programme will be maintained over the next ten years? Has he had an assurance from the Secretary of State for Defence that this will be so?

Mr. Mason

Discussions with the Ministry of Defence Navy Department are continuing on the proposals of the Geddes Committee.