HC Deb 09 May 1911 vol 25 c1035
Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

asked whether the recommendations of the Macnamara Staffing Committee, appointed in July, 1908, are based on the points raised in the petition of the Admiralty and Outports Clerical Federation, dated January, 1908?

Mr. McKENNA

Until we are in a position to make an announcement of the decisions of the Government on the matter, I think my hon. Friend will agree that it would be premature to indicate what the recommendations are.

Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can now say when a reply to the petition of the Admiralty and Outports Clerical Federation, dated January, 1908, will be given?

Mr. McKENNA

The petition in question was referred to a Committee presided over by the Financial Secretary to the Admiralty, and the reply to the petition was included in the Committee's recommendations.

Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

May I ask when effect will be given to the recommendation?

Mr. McKENNA

There is more than one Department involved, and I am afraid I cannot state definitely.

Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman fix an approximate date? Can he fix the limit at five years?

Mr. McKENNA

I hoe it will be sooner than that.

Mr. CHARLES DUNCAN

Hope deferred makes the heart grow sick.