§ 25. Mr. WHELERasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he received in October, 1913, a petition from the ships stewards' class of the Royal Navy; and, if so, when he can give a reply to the petition?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe various points raised in the petition referred to by the hon. Member have been carefully considered by the Admiralty, but it is impossible at the present time to give any assurance that changes such as those proposed can be made.
§ Mr. WHELERMay I take it that no reply will be given at all?
§ Dr. MACNAMARANo reply. I am afraid, at the present time.
§ Mr. WHELERIs it not rather overdue as compared with many other petitions?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe question of overdue does not settle the merits of the case. That is what we have to go upon.