HC Deb 14 March 1910 vol 15 cc19-20
Mr. TWIST

asked how many men and boys deserted the Navy during the year 1909; how many of such have been recovered, and what is the usual punishment for desertion?

Mr. McKENNA

The number of men and boys (including Royal Marines "afloat") who deserted during 1909 was 1,503. The total number of men and boys (including deserters from the Royal Marines "afloat") recovered from desertion in 1909 was 513, but this figure may include deserters of previous years. With regard to the last part of the question, there is no fixed punishment for desertion; the proper punishment depends on the circumstances of each particular case.