§ MR. NIELDTo ask the Secretary to the Admiralty what is the deficiency in the number of stokers needed for adequately manning the fleet; and when such deficiency may be expected to be made good.
(Answered by Mr. Edmund Robertson.) There is no shortage of stokers at present. During the current financial year an increase of 1,500 stokers is being allowed for to meet increased requirements, but the rate of recruiting will suffice to produce this number in addition to making good the normal waste.