HC Deb 16 March 1903 vol 119 c871

Lastly, there is the entry of a number of boys, who are to be trained in the dockyards as boy artificers, and who, we hope, will in due course succeed to the position of engine-room artificers on board our ships. In taking this step we are behind other countries; but better late than never; and I honestly believe we shall be able to give these boys a training in the work for which they are intended which will be a lesson to the country, which will be greatly to the advantage of the boys, and greatly to the advantage of the Fleet. I hope hon. Members will follow with the interest which I certainly feel the career of these boy artificers in His Majesty's service.