HC Deb 26 January 1949 vol 460 cc143-4W
118. Mr. Sharp

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether staff suggestions made under A.F.O. 3802/48 for the elimination of underemployment and reduction of staff may be adopted locally without higher authority; and what quick procedure is used to deal with redundant staff.

Mr. W. Edwards

The Admiralty Fleet Order referred to authorises heads of departments to adopt at once any worthwhile suggestions which do not involve issues of general policy. The arrangements for disposing of redundant staff vary from grade to grade and are based on agreements with the National and Departmental Staff sides.

119. Mr. Sharp

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty why the National Whitley Council message of February, 1948, on the need for manpower economies was not published in Admiralty Fleet Orders until November, 1948.

Mr. W. Edwards

At the time of the issue of the National Whitley Council message the Admiralty was undertaking a review of the arrangements for the making of suggestions by members of the staff, and it was thought desirable to deal with the two matters together. The need for manpower economies has been constantly brought to the notice of all authorities concerned.