§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDasked whether there is a deficiency of sixty-six surgeons on the establishment for those officers in the Navy List; whether the number of ships in commission will probably be increased; and what steps the Admiralty intend to take to fill these vacancies?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe number of surgeons is at present fifty-four below the authorised establishment. It is hoped that the recommendations of the Committee on the Naval Medical Service, when carried into effect, will enable the deficiency to be made good.
§ Lord CHARLES BERESFORDCan the right hon. Gentleman state the cause 408 of the unpopularity of this branch of the naval profession?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe Committee investigated the subject and made various proposals to get over the difficulties which we have at present in recruiting. I hope that as soon as those difficulties are got over we shall be able to get the necessary numbers.
§ Lord C. BERESFORDWill the House be able to see what they receive in the way of pay?
§ Mr. McKENNAPerhaps the Noble Lord will put that question down.
§ Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKEWhen will the recommendations come into force?
§ Mr. McKENNAAs more than one Department is involved I am not in a position to answer.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it affects sick-berth stewards as well?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes.