14. Mr. C. WASONasked the Secretary to the Admiralty if he is aware that men in Shetland over recruitable age were employed on definite terms; that recently the conditions have been made much less favourable; and whether, in view of the fact that the men referred to might have been earning large sums in either the mercantile marine or at fishing, he will make inquiry if the former conditions can be reverted to?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAFrom a private communication which my hon. Friend was good enough to supply me with in advance, it would appear that his question refers more particularly to the conditions as to clothing of the Shetland Royal Naval Reserve. The local arrangements made were found not to be in accordance with the Clothing Regulations, either for the Shetland Royal Naval Reserve or for Royal Naval Reserve men generally, and had, therefore, to be discontinued; but the whole question of what kit is required under the conditions of service of the Shetland Royal Naval Reserve and how it shall be supplied is now under review.