§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked what is the number of officers and men now actually serving on the active list of the Royal Navy; and what number of reserves would be available during the first week of a naval war?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe numbers borne on the l0th June, are as follows:—
| Officers | 8,453 |
| Naval ratings | 106,326 |
| Marines (officers and men) | 17,083 |
| 131,862 |
§ It is undesirable to give details as to the provision and distribution of reserves on mobilisation, but it is anticipated that the numbers of reserves available during the first week of a naval war will be amply sufficient to meet requirements.
§ Mr. ASHLEYWill the right hon. Gentleman say whether in giving this answer he intends to further reduce the Marines?
§ Mr. McKENNAI have stated to the hon. Gentleman that there has not been for some time any suggestion to further reduce the Marines.
§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYIs it the intention to increase that body?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am not quite sure, but I think there is this year a slight increase in the number. The increase is extremely small, but there is no general intention to increase the number.