HC Deb 19 March 1913 vol 50 c1019
12. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware of the difficulty that exists in obtaining shipwrights for the Royal dockyards; and whether he will reconsider the decision given on behalf of the Admiralty against the suggestion to have two examinations annually for the admission of the apprentices?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The Admiralty are fully aware of the present great activity in the shipbuilding industry, and of the consequent difficulty in obtaining shipwrights already in employment in other districts for service in His Majesty's dockyards. It is not, however, at present considered that there would be any advantage in reintroducing the practice of having two examinations a year for the entry of apprentices.