MR. GIBSON BOWLESI beg to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether he has seen the further statements relative to signalmen published in the Press, including The Times of 27th July, whose correspondent with the Red Fleet in the Naval Manœuvres alleges that the signalmen of the Fleet are underpaid and underestimated as compared with other corresponding ratings, and that the signal staff of most ships other than the flagship is consequently undermanned, insufficient and inefficient; and whether he will agree to a Return showing the numbers, ages, and qualifications of the signal staff of the Navy, together with their pay, duties, and prospects of promotion, as compared with those of corresponding ratings?
* SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTHThe statements referred to in the question have been seen at the Admiralty. I adhere to the answer which I gave the hon. Member on Monday last. There, therefore, appears to be no necessity for the Return suggested.
* MR. GIBSON BOWLESWill the right hon. Gentleman allow the House to judge on that point? Is he prepared to give the Return, or does he refuse it?
* SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTHIf the hon. Member refers to the answer I gave on Monday he will find sufficient reasons for refusing it.
* MR. GIBSON BOWLESWill the right hon. Gentleman say "Yes" or "No" to my question. If he refuses the Return I shall know what to do.
* SIR U. KAY-SHUTTLEWORTHThe hon. Gentleman does not seem to understand that when one says that there is no necessity for a Return that answer means "No."