HC Deb 29 November 1966 vol 737 cc72-3W
Captain Kerby

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what were the totals of industrial and non-industrial staff, respectively, in Her Majesty's Dockyards at Portsmouth, Devonport, Chatham and Rosyth on 1st April this year.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

The totals at 1st April, 1966, were:

Industrial Non-Industrial
Portsmouth … 12,038 2,469
Devonport … 13,514 2,136
Chatham … 7,520 1,718
Rosyth … 5,515 1,443

Captain Kerby

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what changes are envisaged in the numerical strengths of industrial and non-industrial staff, respectively, at the four home Royal Dockyards in the next two years; and if he is satisfied that sufficient skilled workers are available to meet the requirements of the fleet.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu

We aim to go on improving our planning and management teams, and this means some increase in non-industrial numbers. We also need to make good shortages of skilled men in some trades.