---

Ministry of Defence

Answer

Dr. Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence for what reason the title of engineering artificer is to be replaced by that of engineering technician in the Royal Navy; what consultations were undertaken with non-commissioned Royal Naval personnel before the decision was taken; and if he will make a statement on the future of engineering apprenticeships in the Royal Navy. [170227] Mr. Caplin: The title Artificer no longer adequately describes the professional role that those personnel undertake in the modern Navy. Replacing it with Engineering Technicians will align the Navy with the standards of competence published by the Engineering Council United Kingdom, and refresh the image of this key role against increasingly competitive recruitment market forces. There has been wide consultation with Royal Navy Engineering Branch personnel of all ranks and rates during this review, covering all aspects of the proposals, including the title change. It is expected that satisfactory completion of Technician training will be recognised by the award of a Foundation Degree, providing the opportunity, for those who wish, to study to Bachelor Degree level, thereby enabling them to aspire to accreditation as Incorporated Engineers. The quality of the skilled, technically trained men and women provided to support the Fleet will be undiminished.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

420 c1716W; 170227

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Apprentices Engineering Navy Engineers Job description Technicians Non-commissioned ranks

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk