§ 42. Mr. Christopher Priceasked the Secretary of State for Defence how many mechanic examiners are employed by his Department in the West Midlands region; how this figure compares with 503 the full establishment; and how many have been recruited this year.
§ Mr. BoydenNinety six mechanic examiners are employed by the Ministry in the Birmingham and Coventry areas; there are 12 vacancies. One has been recruited there since 1st January, 1967.
§ Mr. PriceIs my hon. Friend aware how badly the wages and conditions of these Ministry of Defence mechanic examiners compare with those of their colleagues in private industry? How many of them, because of the shortage which has been described, are having to live away from home compulsorily on a ridiculously small living-away allowance? Will he look at the allowances, in view of the very serious shortage, which is getting worse?
§ Mr. BoydenYes, Sir, and I am in process of writing to my hon. Friend about this matter.