§ 23. Sir B. FALLEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that there are several mechanicians who are anxious to leave His Majesty's Service under the reductions scheme and that there are several mechanicians who have received notice of compulsory discharge who do not wish to leave His Majesty's Service; and whether he will authorise a mutual exchange between these chief petty officers?
§ Mr. AMERYMechanicians who desired to leave the Royal Navy under the reduction scheme have had abundant opportunities since May last of volunteering for discharge. The number of volunteers from this rating, however, was actually less than the surplus to be reduced. For this reason it has been necessary to discharge a certain number compulsorily. Orders, however, have been given that any men in surplus ratings, who volunteer for discharge under the terms of the reduction scheme, are to be discharged before all others.