TNAG-0539-FCO40-634-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 227

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recruiting and retaining labour. It will be necessary to continue

and intensify measures to improve recruitment and productivity if

the Dockyards are successfully to undertake their planned programmes.

28. In 1975-6, refitting and refuelling of nuclear submarines will

be the major task at both Chatham and Rosyth. Chatham has recently

become capable of refitting two nuclear submarines at the same time

(dual streaming). Rosyth will continue to specialise in the nuclear-

powered Polaris vessels. Both yards will also undertake surface

ship refits. The programme for Portsmouth includes one major refit

and two normal refits of guided-missile destroyers, the normal

refit of the cruiser HMS Tiger, frigate refits and a dual-stream

programme of conventional submarine refits. Devonport will continue

to undertake the major share of Leander class frigate refits. Its

programme will also include the normal refit of the assault ship

HMS Fearless, conventional submarine refits and nuclear submarine

dockings. Gibraltar Dockyard will continue with a programme of

refits of frigates and coastal minesweepers.

undertake work during 1975-6 on a variety of other vessels and craft,

including the refits of some Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels at

Devonport and Chatham, assistance in new construction for the Royal

Navy and other work for civil customers.

29.

The Dockyards will also

Improvements to management systems include new procedures for

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 a clearer line

of accountability from the Dockyard organisation to Parliament

and an added stimulus to efficiency.

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