§ 19. Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the raising of the age limit for apprentices from 14 to 16 bears very hardly on parents whose sons fail to pass the apprentice examination, as outside firms will not accept apprentices beyond the age of 16 unless a very large premium is paid; and if he will consider the possibility of lowering the age limit, and also have the candidates medically examined before instead of after the examination?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThe present age limits for candidates for apprenticeships in the Royal Dockyards are minimum 15 and maximum 16 years. My hon. Friend will probably be aware that the lower age limit was advanced from 14 to 15 years a few years ago after careful consideration both by the Admiralty and the Board of Education; one of the considerations being the desire to avoid upsetting the school arrangements of the Education Authorities; and it is not considered desirable to revert to the former lower limit.
416 As to the medical examination taking place before the educational examination, here again my hon. Friend is doubtless aware that this was formerly the practice, but it was found the present practice would be generally more satisfactory and meet the general convenience. I will have this point, however, looked at again.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the practice in force now is to the detriment of these boys?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI say I will have that question as to whether or not the medical examination shall be made before the educational examination looked into.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEWill the right hon. Gentleman have the age altered?
§ Dr. MACNAMARANo. I cannot undertake that.