§ Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH - COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that when Admiralty Order Dpt. L.N. 9265, C.N. 2, 7792/12643, 3rd December, 1906, was issued, the total number of chargemen of shipwrights at Devonport dockyard was forty-five, and according to the regulation twenty-five or 55.5 per cent. of that number were to receive an increase of pay to the extent of 3s. a week; that the number of chargemen of shipwrights at Devonport dockyard is now eighty-two, and of this number only 30.4 per cent., as compared with 55.5 per cent. in 1906, are in receipt of the increased pay; and whether he will consider the advisability of increasing the number of promotions to meet the extra number of chargemen?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe figures are approximately correct. The question raised 597 by the hon. Member is one of several that are now under consideration in connection with the petitions.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEMay we know when these petitions will be answered?
§ Mr. McKENNAI hope shortly. I am pushing them forward as fast as I can.