Captain FABERasked the right hon. Gentleman if he is aware that the captain of H.M.S. "Hermione," during the recent evidence on the running aground of that ship, stated that he did not have two leadsmen in the chains because he was short handed under the nucleus crew system; and whether it is possible to increase the complement of the seaman class in nucleus crews in future?
§ Mr. McKENNAThis was one reason given in by the captain of the "Hermione" for there not being a second leadsman in the chains on the occasion of the "Hermione" grounding. The Admiralty do not consider that the number of seaman ratings is insufficient.
§ Mr. RENWICKAre any ships sent to sea during the winter months with nucleus crews?
§ Mr. McKENNAOh, yes. Constantly.
§ Mr. ASHLEYIs the command of nucleus crews laid down by regulations?
§ Mr. McKENNAI must have notice of that question.