HC Deb 13 May 1909 vol 4 c2014
Mr. MIDDLEMORE

I desire to ask the the First Lord of the Admiralty how many officers of the Royal Navy are qualified as interpeters in German; how many of those so qualified are at present unemployed; and how many are employed respectively in the Mediterranean Fleet, Atlantic Fleet, and the First (North Sea) Division of the Home Fleet?

Mr. McKENNA

Thirty-three officers of the Royal Navy are qualified as interpreters in German. Two of these are at the present moment on half-pay and unemployed. Four are serving in the Mediterranean Fleet, seven in the Atlantic Fleet, and six in the First Division of the Home Fleet. I should add in correction of the hon. Gentleman that the First Division of the Home Fleet is not rightly described as the North Sea Division.

Mr. MIDDLEMORE

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the provision he has made as to the number?

Mr. McKENNA

I was merely speaking of the name. The hon. Member gives to the First Division the name "North Sea."

Mr. MIDDLEMORE

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the present distribution of the officers?

Mr. McKENNA

Yes, Sir; I am perfectly satisfied.