§ Mr. Awberyasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if an agreement has now been reached with the employees of the Singapore naval base with regard to overtime rates, pension rights and medical facilities; how long it is since these claims were first submitted; and if he will take steps to accelerate a final settlement.
§ Mr. DigbyI am not aware of any outstanding claim relating to overtime rates in the Naval Base. As regards pension rights, various claims have been made since 1948, but so far the Admiralty has not felt able to concede them. The matter is being re-examined; this will take time, however, and it will be necessary to consider carefully the heavy financial liability which would be involved.
A comprehensive medical and hospital service exists at present for employees resident in the Base and medical facilities are available on the site for all other employees who require it in the course of their employment.