§ 4. Mr. PETOasked whether the new regulations which have been laid down under the Defence of the Realm Act with the object of enforcing better discipline on merchant vessels engaged in the service of the Admiralty have as yet had any effect in mitigating the insubordination which has existed on these vessels?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAA number of prosecutions have taken place under the new regulations, and penalties have been inflicted. It is, however, somewhat early to judge the full effect of the regulations.
§ 5. Mr. PETOasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the necessity of strengthening the hands of those who command and officer merchant vessels engaged in Admiralty work, who have experienced difficulties in preserving discipline amongst their crews, he will now grant these captains and officers temporary commissions in the Royal Naval Reserve, when they will then be in a position to wear the King's uniform?
§ Dr. MACNAMARATo grant these officers temporary commissions in the Royal Naval Reserve would not in itself enable them the better to maintain discipline. Certain measures have already been taken with this end in view, and their results are being watched with the closest care.
§ Mr. PETOIs the right hon. Gentleman still bearing in mind the advisability of putting the Naval Discipline Act into force and giving these officers the King's commission so that they can administer it?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe hon. Gentleman is aware that the giving of commissions would not have the effect which he desires, but certain other measures are being carried out.