HC Deb 10 June 1884 vol 288 cc1892-3
MR. A. F. EGERTON

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty, What has caused the delay in filling up the existing vacancies for ten first class Assistant Constructors at the Dockyards, provided for by the recent reorganisation scheme; and, why the Foremen of the yard, some of whom have charge of the most important work, are only made second class Assistant Constructors, thereby placing them at a disadvantage in comparison with the Admiralty Draughtsmen, who were made first class Constructors and eligible for Dockyard appointments, whereas formerly the Foremen ranked next below the Constructors at the Dockyards?

SIR THOMAS BEASSEY

The reorganization of the Constructive Staff at the Admiralty and the Dockyards can only be worked out gradually. In recommending the appointment of 10 first-class assistant constructors to the Dockyards, the Committee contemplated that some of the designing work now done at the Admiralty should be transferred to the Yards. This change cannot yet be carried out. With regard to the second part of the Question, those Admiralty draftsmen who have been appointed first-class assistant constructors were employed on work demanding the highest scientific qualifications, which had, under former arrangements, been inadequately recognized. The Admiralty do not admit that this argument applies with equal force to the foremen of the Yard, highly as we value their services. They have accordingly been appointed, in the first instance, second-class assistant constructors, with the prospect of further promotion without the ordeal of examination.

SIR H. DRUMMOND WOLFF

asked, whether any decision had been come to as to the inspectors of shipwrights?

SIR THOMAS BRASSEY

said, he could not announce any decision on that subject.

SIR. DRUMMOND WOLFF

asked, whether the decision would be announced this year?

SIR THOMAS BBASSEY

said, he would make inquiry into the matter.