§ 8. Mr. MIDDLEMOREasked whether, in view of the fact that it is the stated policy of the Board to maintain a greater superiority than 60 per cent, in armoured ships, cruisers, and destroyers over the next naval Power, the necessary steps will be taken to ensure that we maintain a greater superiority than 60 per cent, in the active list personnel?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe manning requirements of the Navy depend upon the fleets which it is necessary to maintain in commission, and no standard based on the numbers of a foreign navy would be applicable. As a matter of fact, however the margin of superiority in personnel which the hon. Member recommends has been, and continues to be, more than fully maintained.
§ Mr. MIDDLEMOREIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that if we are to maintain this superiority of trained men we shall require 23,500 men added to the personnel in 1915?
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEIs the right hon. Gentleman sure that he will be able to secure the necessary addition to the personnel after his action towards the shipwrights?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI really do not think that that arises out of the question.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEIt arises later on.