§ 24. Mr. HORE-BELISHAasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether seeing that it is stated in dockyard regulations that, if character and ability are equal, ex-apprentices shall receive a preference in case of discharge, and that the nomination papers of apprentices also state that, given good character and ability, these men shall be entitled to two years' work on completion of their apprenticeship, he will explain the present policy of the Government in discharging apprentices on the completion of their time?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMThere is no such policy as that for which the hon. 1608 Member asks for an explanation; nor are these men entitled to two years' work on completion of their apprenticeship. It is unfortunately sometimes necessary to discharge ex-apprentices notwithstanding the preference which they are given in accordance with the regulations.
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAWhen were the regulations changed from the sense represented in my question?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMI cannot give an answer without more notice.