§ 1. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, whether he is aware of the diversity in the promotion of the Dartmouth naval cadets to the rank of midshipmen, and that, for instance, some first-term boys, who could not possibly know anything of officers' duties, were promoted midshipmen, dating from the 2nd August; and that some fourth and fifth-term boys were appointed, dating from the 22nd September, after the cruiser disasters, thus ranking for all time in the Navy as juniors to the first-term boys previously promoted; and whether he will inquire into the whole question of seniority in future years which has arisen from his action in regard to the Dartmouth cadets?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of ADMIRALTY (Dr. Macnamara)I am aware of the diversity in promotion mentioned by the hon. Member. It is, however, not a fact that cadets of any term can be passed over in their future career by cadets of a lower term on account of the seniority given them as midshipmen. A circular will shortly be issued to the Fleet containing regulations which will allay the anxiety as to the future of these young officers apparently existing.