§ 31. Mr. Juddasked the Secretary of State for Defence what discussions he has initiated with other appropriate Government Departments, local authorities and all other interested parties about the reducing task of the naval dockyards in the 1970s.
§ Mr. FoleyAs I explained in the Defence (Navy) Estimates Debate on 11th March we are carrying out a study to determine the effects on the Royal dockyards of the cuts in defence expenditure announced on 16th January. We have not reached the stage when it would be appropriate to initiate discussions with others concerned.
§ Mr. JuddIn view of the outstanding service to the nation by these communities in the past, would not my hon. Friend agree that it would be disastrous if they were presented with an administrative fait accompli? Will my hon. Friend give an assurance that there will be full consultation with local authorities and other Government Departments on the most productive possible use of human and physical resources?
§ Mr. Wingfield DigbyIs the Committee considering doing more shipbuilding, as opposed to ship repairing in the Royal dockyards?
§ Mr. FoleyThis is a continuing aspect of the examination of the work of the dockyards to see what they can do and what must be put to outside contract.