HC Deb 03 December 1969 vol 792 cc1469-70
10. Mr. Judd

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the future conditions of service for apprentice group instructors in the Royal Naval dockyards.

Dr. David Owen

The instructors were graded as industrials until 1967, when they were regraded into the technical class with the benefit of improved pay and conditions. I know they wish to be regraded as instructional officers, but there are strong arguments for the technical grading.

Mr. Judd

While thanking my hon. Friend for that reply and for the arrangements which have helped to facilitate the meeting with the Civil Service this evening, may I ask whether he understands that there is real concern at the long time that this dispute has gone on unresolved? Will he, therefore, ensure urgency on the part of the Government in coming to a satisfactory solution.

Dr. Owen

I understand my hon. Friend's feelings and I can only say that we shall, with him, listen to the deputation from the staff later today. We can discuss the matter then.