§ Mr. MILDMAYasked whether any conclusion has been come to as a result of the promised consideration by the Lords of the Admiralty of the position of assistant naval store officers?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)The matter is still under consideration, but, as the hon. Member is no doubt aware, more than one Department is concerned, and the decision is not entirely in our hands.
§ Mr. MILDMAYMay I ask whether the right hon. Gentleman is aware that exactly the same answer was given to me a year and a-half ago, and whether this long period of deep thought is likely to be fruitful?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe hon. Gentleman's recollection is at fault. My recollection is that a reply was given last April; that the matter was under consideration. It has been advanced a stage, but it is not entirely in our hands, as I think the hon. Gentleman will recognise.