§ MR. KEARLEYI beg to ask the Civil Lord of the Admiralty whether the Admiralty are now in a position to announce their intentions as to improving the promotion prospects and rank of Naval Warrant Officers; and whether the statement recently furnished to the Admiralty computing the expenditure 995 necessary to establish the desired concessions has been examined, and the sum therein stated—namely, £3,000 per annum, found to be a correct estimate?
§ MR. E. ROBERTSONThe Board of Admiralty have carefully considered the conditions of service of Naval Warrant Officers. They do not see their way to add an additional grade in the ranks of this body. Although there is a period of their service when promotion is arrested, the Admiralty consider that, having regard to the duties to be performed, on the whole the grades of rank already in existence are sufficient. As already stated, the Admiralty are desirous, as suitable opportunities occur, to increase the number of posts open to these officers on promotion in ordnance and other employment on shore.
MR. GIBSON BOWLES (Lynn Regis)Is it not a fact that at present there is an impassable barrier between the lower- deck and the quarter deck in regard to these officers, except in cases where they have an opportunity of distinguishing themselves by gallantry in action? Will the Admiralty not consider whether merits other than gallantry in action should not equally be considered; and whether, in fact, the door which now prevents promotion ought not to be set open?
§ [The question was not answered.]