HC Deb 23 June 1913 vol 54 cc791-2
44. Lord CHARLES BERESFORD

had upon the Paper a question, namely: To ask the First Lord of the Admiralty whether on occasions when a large number of ships assemble at Spithead it is customary for leave to be given only to about 10 per cent. of the ships' companies, the principal reason being the supposed lack of accommodation on shore at Portsmouth; whether he is aware that at the present time there would appear to be ample accommodation for all, due to the increase in the number of homes and private houses offered to the Naval Accommodation Committee; whether he is aware that a very large number of petty officers, noncommissioned officers, and men, both married and single, have their homes in Portsmouth; whether he is aware that the removal of the order which governs the landing of liberty men to the extent of 10 per cent. only and the granting of leave under usual conditions would be much appreciated by petty officers, non-commissioned officers, and men in the fleet; and whether the Board of Admiralty can see their way to accede to the men's request for leave under the usual conditions while the fleet is lying at Spithead from the 20th to 28th June?

53. Mr. FALLE

asked if, when a number of ships assemble at Spithead it is customary for leave to be granted to about 10 per cent. of the ships' companies only; and if this percentage can be largely increased this week and this rule amended or abolished in future?

The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Churchill)

In answering Mr. Falle's question, I may also refer to Question 44. It has been customary when a very large number of ships assemble at Spithead to limit the leave to a certain percentage of the crews, not on account of lack of shore accommodation, but for other reasons. In the case of Portsmouth ships on such occasions the percentage has been 20, and not 10, as stated. On the present occasion there will be no need to lay down any restriction, and full leave will be granted under the usual conditions. As regards the enforcement of a percentage rule on future occasions, I can give no pledge that when a very large number of ships assemble some restriction may not be necessary.