HC Deb 03 March 1915 vol 70 cc774-5
7. Sir CLEMENT KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can see his way to grant war rant rank to stoker ratings instead of requiring these ratings to seek promotion for their services as mechanicians?

Dr. MACNAMARA

The Admiralty do not see their way to the adoption of the hon. Member's suggestion. As is indicated by the terms of his question, opportunities for promotion to warrant rank already exist.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Has the right hon. Gentleman read the statements made by Admiral Beatty and Admiral Sturdee in their dispatches published today, and does he not consider, in view of these statements, that some recognition ought to be made of the stokers?

Dr. MACNAMARA

As to the fine work done by the stokers the Admiralty are entirely aware of it.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

I asked whether there would be some recognition of their work?