HC Deb 28 June 1979 vol 969 cc298-9W
Mr. Peter Griffiths

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the total number of persons employed in the Royal Naval Dockyard, Portsmouth; and how this compares with the numbers in 1973.

Mr. Speed

The numbers employed in Her Majesty's Dockyard, Portsmouth compared with those in 1973 are as follows:

1979 7,720
1973 8,840

NOTE: Since 1973 several transfers of tasks between general manager and the other elements of the naval base have resulted in a net increase of 80 posts which are included in the 1979 figure.

Mr. Peter Griffiths

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement affirming his confidence in the long-term role of the Royal Naval Dockyard, Portsmouth.

Mr. Speed

There will be for the foreseeable future a full load of naval refitting work for Her Majesty's Dockyard, Portsmouth. Its current programme includes the refitting of destroyers, including those of the new class now coming into service, the larger fleet units and other ships and submarines. To undertake the work available the dockyard requires additional labour, particularly skilled craftsmen in several key trades.