HC Deb 30 October 1912 vol 43 cc418-9
2. Captain FABER

asked whether the pay of the bluejackets is to be increased during 1912, as promised?

7. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked whether, owing to the Treasury being unexpectedly called on to provide £1,600,000 extra for medical benefits under the National Insurance Act, it will now be impossible to carry out the pledge that in the autumn the First Lord of the Admiralty would be in a position to lay before the House definite proposals relating to the promised increase of pay to seamen employed in the Royal Navy, or that, if the proposals be made, the scale of pay contemplated by the Lords Commissioners will have to undergo a material reduction; and, if not, will he allay the anxiety of the men by making a further statement to the House, if possible, giving the date when the announcement will be made?

Mr. LAMBERT

My right hon. Friend the First Lord of the Admiralty informs me that he hopes to make an announcement on this subject shortly.

Captain FABER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that on one of the largest armoured ships in Southern dockyards there is a state of seething discontent on account of this promised pay not being given?

Mr. LAMBERT

I am not aware of that.

Captain FABER

Will the hon. Gentleman make inquiry?

Mr. LAMBERT

I will make a note of it.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Has the right hon. Gentleman replied to my question? The first part of that question is rather important.

Mr. LAMBERT

I think the hon. Members inference is ingenious, but not accurate.