§ 11. Mr. Juddasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the future of Royal Naval dockyard technical colleges.
§ Dr. David OwenI have requested formal discussions with the local authorities concerned in the Portsmouth area on the possibilty of transferring the responsibility for the education of dockyard apprentices to the local education authorities. I have no plans to effect a similar transfer of responsibilities at Devonport, Chatham and Rosyth, but certain organisational changes are being considered with the aim of achieving full integration of educational and practical training.
§ Mr. JuddDoes my hon. Friend appreciate that there is naturally a degree of anxiety amongst the staff at the technical college at Portsmouth Dockyard about their future status? Could he reassure them with all possible speed that a quick decision will be reached about their future so that they can make appropriate plans for their personal lives?
§ Dr. OwenThe detailed terms of transfer will be a matter for negotiation, and every effort will be made to safeguard the position of the staff. As to timing, I hope to complete those negotiations with the local education authorities by Easter, 1970, in time for the transfer to take place by September, 1970.
§ Mr. Wingfield DigbyWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the tremendous service which these colleges have done not only to the Royal Navy but to many other technical establishments outside the Service?
§ Dr. OwenI certainly pay tribute to the very valuable service they have given to the local community and to the Navy.