§ 1. Mr. Freudasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the current civilian staff at RAF Ely, what percentage this is of the total complement; and if he will make a statement in respect of future job opportunities for civilians at the hospital.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Royal Air Force (Mr. Geoffrey Pattie)There are 144 civilians currently employed at RAF Ely representing 95 percent, of the total complement of the hospital or 0.5 per cent, of the Air Force Department's total civilian complement. As the hon. Member knows, a number of studies are under way which could affect the future level of civilian employment at the RAF hospital and elsewhere in the RAF. I hope to let him know the outcome of the studies at RAF Ely shortly.
§ Mr. FreudI am grateful for that reply. Will the Minister bear in mind the ever-worsening employment situation in Ely, especially in view of yesterday's announced closure of the Ely sugar beet factory? Will he continue the happy relationship of direct employment, rather than the deployment of remote agencies in order to supervise work for the RAF hospital?
§ Mr. PattieI shall bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman says. I can assure him that the contract studies will not be proceeded with unless it can be demonstrated that there will be a genuine saving.
§ Mr. BuckIs my hon. Friend aware that many East Anglians are extremely grateful for the facilities which are extended by the Royal Air Force hospital in Ely to civilians in the area, not only by way of job opportunities but by way of the medical facilities that it provides? For example, the hon. and learned Member for Colchester had his left knee dealt with by that hospital. The cartilege was removed swiftly and safely. A similar facility is given to the hon. Member for Isle of Ely (Mr. Freud) and his constituents and many others in the area.
§ Mr. SpeakerWas it a long operation?
§ Mr. PattieIt was a successful one.