§ Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH -COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he was aware of the disability under which a Royal Marine suffers in the matter of reduced railway fares; that he is unable to get a reduced fare on production of a pass available for six days, whereas any man in the Navy who wants leave for 48 hours can obtain a liberty ticket, on production of which at any railway station he is only called upon to pay half the ordinary fare; and whether he would consider the advisability of placing the Marine and the able seaman on an equality in this respect?
§ The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. McKenna)The concession of half-fare rates for short leave is granted by the railway companies to petty officers, seamen, and Marines of His Majesty's ships only. It is not granted to soldiers, and is therefore not applicable to Marines on shore strength, who for this purpose are governed by Army regulations.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEDo I understand that it is applicable to Marines on ships?
§ Mr. McKENNAYes.
§ Mr. LEEIs it applicable to blue-coats who are not actually serving on ships, but are in Naval barracks?
§ Mr. McKENNAIf they are on the ships' books, I imagine it is applicable; but I should like notice of the question.