HC Deb 08 January 1942 vol 377 cc78-9W
Major Procter

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he will consider putting dependants of merchant seamen in the same position as the men in the Armed Forces in the case of the payment of allotments when merchant sailors are left abroad sick?

Colonel Llewellin

We recently arranged that as from 1st January, seamen left behind abroad sick will continue to draw, for a period up to 12 weeks, their full wages less the war risk money, which is only payable while they are at sea, and less, in the case of insured persons, the standard rate of sickness benefit. These arrangements will enable allotments to be continued for that period. On becoming fit for further employment they will at once be eligible for the same pay as is given to men in this country whilst awaiting appointment to another ship. Allotments will therefore be continued in this case also.

Major Procter

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether any arrangements are made for the provision of sea-going kit to men who are directed back to the merchant service?

Colonel Llewellin

Yes, Sir. Details of an arrangement just made will be circulated to the officers' and men's societies within a few days and I will send a copy to my hon. Friend.

Mr. Wootton-Davies

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport what was the total response to the appeal for men for the Merchant Navy Reserve; and what use is being made of such men?

Colonel Llewellin

In reply to the Merchant Navy Reserve invitation over 5,000 men returned voluntarily to the Merchant Navy. When the Essential Work (Merchant Navy) Order came into force on 26th May, 1941, all persons between 18 and 60 who had been to sea since 1st January, 1936, and were not then actually engaged in the Merchant Service were required to register and furnish particulars of their employment. A very large number registered and these are being called upon as the state of the Merchant Navy reserve pool requires, due regard being had to the relative national importance of their present work. About 6,000 of these men have already returned to seagoing employment.