§ 31. Sir T. BRAMSDONasked the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the cooking arrangements in the Royal Marine establishments at Portsmouth, Plymouth, and Chatham are being reconstructed so as to carry out an up-to-date system of general messing; and whether it is the intention of their Lordships to appoint to those places properly-trained naval cook ratings, thereby utilising their experience for effective service and economy as well as to alleviate the stagnation of promotion which exists amongst the Royal naval cooks?
§ Sir J. CRAIGThe cook-houses at the Royal Marine Barracks at Chatham, Deal, and Eastney are to be reconstructed, but it is not proposed at present to carry out similar work at Forton and Plymouth. Cooking at the Royal Marine Barracks is performed by Royal Marines, who undergo the necessary courses of instruction, and are under the superintendence of fully-qualified cook sergeants. It is not proposed to employ naval cook ratings in the Royal Marine Barracks.