§ 8. Commander Viscount CURZONasked when the war gratuities will be paid to the officers and men of the Royal Navy; and whether demobilised officers and men are now entitled to draw their war gratuities?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI have prepared a detailed answer, and as it is lengthy, will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
The following is the reply referred to:
The war gratuities to officers and men of the permanent Naval Service are not due until the prescribed terminating date of the qualifying war period has been reached. Meanwhile, of course, increments of war gratuity are being earned.
As regards the second part of the question, demobilised officers and men are entitled to their war gratuities on being demobilised, and these gratuities are now being paid.
2004 It may be useful if I say that permanent and retired officers who are discharged from active service prior to the prescribed terminating date of the qualifying war period, and who desire early payment, are required to apply to the Accountant-General, Admiralty. Temporary officers are also required to apply for payment. The necessary forms can be obtained on demobilisation either from the accountant officer of the ship concerned or from the Admiralty. Where application is not made within a reasonable time, the form is issued automatically.
Men demobilised after the Armistice who received a protection and identity certificate on discharge need not apply, as action is taken automatically. Men demobilised or discharged during the War, and any men demobilised after the Armistice who did not receive a protection and identity certificate should apply on the special naval form (A.G. No. 305), to be obtained at all naval and marine recruiting offices, at the offices of all superintendents of Mercantile Marine, at the Admiralty, and other places; or the Army Form W. 5063, to be got at any Post Office.