Naval Establishments and Dockyards

HC Deb 21 May 1974 vol 874 cc165-7

5 . Mr. Evelyn King

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what defence cuts he has in mind; how far they are liable to affect naval establishments and dockyards; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Judd

I have nothing to add to what my right hon. and hon. Friends and I said in the defence debate on 13th May.

Mr. King

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that it is becoming increasingly difficult in the Weymouth and Portland area to get industrial development certificates, because these decisions are taken in the context of defence activity? Will he give us an absolute assurance that defence activity will not also be cut in the Portland area?

Mr. Judd

It is too early to say what measures might have to be considered. We are holding a systematic review and not indulging in arbitrary cuts. Naturally we appreciate that there is some anxiety among civilian defence workers. The Government have made plain their commitment to the interests of Service men and civilians alike and their determination to ensure that the valuable human and capital resources which may be released continue to be used in the best possible economic and industrial interests of the nation.

Mr. Viggers

The hon. Gentleman will be fully aware of the concern felt in the Portsmouth area about the possible future of Portsmouth Dockyard. First we want a decision, but, as a secondary and subsidiary point, if thoughts are being turned in the direction of civilian employment in the dockyards, will Portsmouth Dockyard have advantages similar to those in areas in the north of England in the construction of North Sea oil rigs and other activities?

Mr. Judd

Naturally, as the responsible Minister, I am concerned about the future of all four dockyards in this country.

Mr. Younger

Will the Minister give an assurance that if civilian work of this type is put to the dockyards it will not be done at the expense of civilians in other parts of the country? No one would be much better off if that happened.

Mr. Judd

Naturally, any steps taken in that direction will be taken in the fullest possible consultation with all other Government Departments.

15. Miss Fookes

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will clarify the future role of the naval dockyards in his review of defence expenditure.

Mr. Judd

The naval dockyards will of course continue to fulfil their role of supporting the Fleet.

Miss Fookes

One wants to know how large the Fleet is to be.

Mr. Judd

As a result of this review we are determined to have an effective Navy continuing to play its full and dynamic part within the alliance.

Mr. Hooley

Will my hon. Friend ask the Secretary of State to have consultations in advance with the Secretary of State for Industry in the event of our needing some redeployment from naval to civilian use of these important facilities?

Mr. Judd

Consultations are already taking place between relevant Departments, and my hon. Friend's suggestions are very much in mind.