TNAG-0537-FCO40-632-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 112

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28.

Improvements to management systems include new procedures l'or

dockyard resources allocation, refit planning and production control.

Action is being taken to introduce a separate Dockyard Vote into the

Defence Estimates for 1976-77. This will provide both for more

rapid accountability from the Dockyard organisation to Parliament,

and also for a powerful financial stimulus to efficiency.

29. The earlier disposal of some ships, and other Defence Review

economies, will slightly reduce the Dockyards' programme of naval

refitting and repair work. If the labour force remains at about its

present level, there will be a welcome opportunity for some further

diversification in the activities of the Dockyards, to include work

for other areas of the Ministry of Defence and support of the

construction of HM ships, and also repair of warships for foreign

governments on a commercial basis_7. Some increase in civil work

is also expected. Any contribution the Dockyards can make in

exploiting offshore energy resources will be given the greatest

possible priority.

Naval Aircraft Repair Organisation

30. Work is almost complete on the re-organisation of the Naval

Aircraft Repair Organisation (NARO), following the transfer to the

Royal Air Force of responsibility for the repair management of

Naval fixed-wing aircraft, and the assumption by the Royal Navy of

responsibility for the repair management of helicopters for all

three Services. Preparations are also well advanced for the overhaul

and repair within the NARO of marine gas-turbine engines for the

Fleet. Methods are currently being studied for improving the

efficiency and competitiveness of the NARO without reducing its

flexibility in responding to urgent operational requirements.

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