§ 12. Captain SHEEHANasked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to the fact that no gratuities are payable in respect of the War services of officers of the Royal Naval Reserve or other officers serving temporarily with the naval forces or the Royal Naval Air Service; and whether steps will be taken to place them on the same footing with similar officers serving in the Army, and to give such a decision, if arrived at, retrospective effect?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAYes, Sir; and the question is still under discussion between the Admiralty and the Treasury.
§ Captain SHEEHANIf it is granted, will it be made retrospective?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI cannot say whether it will be made retrospective, but the matter is being discussed with the Treasury.
§ Captain SHEEHANDoes not the right hon. Gentleman recognise that if it is granted and it is to be fair and reasonable all round it should be made retrospective?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI hope that we shall not be involved in a discussion of the matter. We are now discussing it with the Treasury.