HC Deb 24 July 1957 vol 574 c62W
93. Mr. Awbery

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty, if he is aware of the need for more medium size dry docks in various ports of the country, and that private capital is not available for these projects; and what steps are being taken by his Department to meet these requirements.

Mr. T. G. D. Galbraith

The provision of more dry docks is a matter for the dry dock owners and the ship-repairing industry. The Admiralty helps by periodically reviewing the need and by giving advice on dimensions and technical matters generally, but it is not Government policy to provide public money to construct them. No instances of medium size projects held up because of inability to find private capital have come to my notice. If the hon. Member would send me details of any such cases I would be grateful.