12. Mr. F. HALLasked what is the length of time taken in training a seaman for the Navy; how many of the boys now being trained will become qualified as regards age limit and in other respects to join the Navy in the present and the two succeeding years; how many new ships will be commissioned in the three years 1913–14, 1914–15, and 1915–16; and the total number of seamen required for the full manning of such vessels?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLSo far as the training of seamen is concerned, I must refer the hon. Member to what I said when introducing the Navy Estimates last month. The output of men and ships, and the corresponding deductions due to wastage of men and ships, are, so far as can be foreseen, carefully balanced for several years in advance, and the partial statistics asked for would be of no value, as they would take no account of wastage on either side.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in introducing the Navy Estimates he gave three years as the time in which seamen will become efficient, and is it not the fact that the term in the opinion of the authorities of the Admiralty is four years?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThat does not arise out of the question.