§ 21 and 22. Mr. Digbyasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (1), whether he aware that many civilian motor transport drivers and driver-fitters at Fleet Air Arm aerodromes are not fully employed; and what steps he is taking to reduce their numbers;
(2) what is the entitlement of Fleet Air Arm aerodromes to civilian drivers and driver-fitters; when this entitlement was last reviewed; and whether he will give an undertaking that naval ratings will be used wherever possible to perform the duties for which these civilians were employed.
§ Mr. W. EdwardsIt is the normal Admiralty peace time practice to employ civilians as drivers and driver-fitters at Naval Air Stations, as it is uneconomical to use fully trained Naval ratings for this purpose The numbers employed at each 363W establishment depend upon the vehicle complement, which varies according to the size and functions of the establishment Complements of vehicles are under constant review in the light of changing requirements. The work of these civilian employees necessarily involves some period of waiting, but I am satisfied that they are in general fully employed. If the hon. Gentleman has any specific case of under-employment perhaps he will let me know.