DR. CAMERONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, Whether it is not a fact that by a Fleet Circular (No. 21), issued in June 1877, certain improvements were made in the position of engine room artificers in the Navy, and a certain uniform prescribed for them; whether within the last few months they have not been for the first time ordered to wear the badge of a chief petty officer; whether there is any truth in the statement that this order had given rise to so much dissatisfaction among them that many of them have demanded their discharge from the Service; and, if he would explain what reason there is for enforcing an order on a point apparently so unmaterial if, as it is alleged, it is regarded with so much distaste by the persons to whom it refers?
§ MR. W. H. SMITHSir, it is true that in 1877 new Regulations were issued regarding the position of engine-room artificers, and prescribing a certain uniform for them to wear; but it is the right and the duty of the Admiralty to make such alterations as they think fit. The Queen's Regulations provide that the officers and seamen of the Fleet shall wear such uniform as Her Majesty shall from time to time direct. In February, 1878, the engine-room artificers were ordered to wear the distinctive badge of their rank in common with other chief petty officers. In some few instances dissatisfaction was expressed, and some men demanded their discharge, which was refused. The reason for enforcing the order lies in the imperative necessity of requiring obedience to orders when given, as a point of discipline. The badge is one of rank and not of degradation, and is so viewed by the great majority of the men. Since it has been required to be worn, the applicants for entry have been so numerous that the numbers are complete, and no more can now be taken into the Service.