§ 8. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware of the hours worked by seamen in the Royal Navy, extending on occasions from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.; whether he can see his way to remedying this condition of things, seeing that it tells against efficiency, by joining more men; and whether he has any information to give the House regarding any rise in the seamen's pay?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe ordinary routine of work on board His Majesty's ships is not unduly severe, but on occasions long hours must be worked. This is one of the conditions of a sailor's life, and is not affected by the number of men entered. As regards the last part of the question, I have nothing to add to my reply on the 20th May last to the hon. Member for Dulwich.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKECan the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is any truth in the report that a Commission has been appointed to inquire into the question of seamen's pay?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThere is no truth whatever in the report.