HC Deb 02 May 1980 vol 983 cc695-6W
Mr. Frank Allaun

asked the Secretary of State for Defence if the cruise missiles

United Kingdom-based ROF Locally-engaged civilians Total
1975 247,900 18,600 50,100 316,600
1976 247,100 21,200 47,300 315,600
1977 238,500 22,700 42,700 303,900
1978 230,000 23,100 40,500 293,900
1979 225,500 23,100 39,500 288,100
1980 220,200 21,500 37,000 278,700

Further reductions will be made in 1980–81 to enable us to achieve the 2½ per cent.ash savings required in connection with this year's Civil Service pay settlements and a recruiting ban is in force. In addition, in the period up to 1982 savings of 7,500 will be made as a result of the measures announced by the Minister of State, Civil Service Department on 6 December 1979. Beyond that, studies into the Royal dockyards, research and development and supply management may reveal scope for further savings. We are also participating in studies commissioned by Sir Derek Rayner and there is a continuing process of review to cut out waste and to improve efficiency. No breakdown of the projected savings is possible, but it must be remembered that our present civilian work force covers a wide range of specialisations and skills including craft and non-craft industrials. Only 4 per cent. are employed on administrative and executive work.

proposed to be deployed in Great Britain and Western Europe can be recalled, as can other missiles, after they have been launched.

Mr. Pym

The hon. Gentleman is mistaken. Operational military missiles cannot be recalled once they have been launched.