§ 33. Sir A. SHIRLEY BENNasked how many of the dockyard apprentices are still in the Army; and if he can state what steps are being taken to have them demobilised at the earliest possible moment, so as to enable them to complete their apprenticeships?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAIt has not been possible in the time to ascertain the exact number of apprentices still in the Army, but I am advised that there are probably between 200 and 300. Demobilisation is, of course, in the hands of the Army Council. The Admiralty have taken the steps open to them by notifying that the apprentices will be re-employed immediately on their discharge from the Army. The position of these men on returning to the dockyard will be that they will be credited with the time served in the forces as time served at their trades, and will be given an opportunity to complete their training as tradesmen whilst. drawing tradesmen's wages if the term of the apprenticeship has elapsed whilst they have been serving in the Forces.