HC Deb 30 July 1924 vol 176 c2040
20. Major Sir BERTRAM FALLE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he can give the Admiralty reason for recommissioning H.M.S. "Maine" with Maltese ratings in the face of the unemployment at home?

Mr. AMMON

The hospital ship "Maine" is employed in Mediterranean waters for prolonged and indefinite periods, and the crew is required to sign a two-years' agreement. Experience has shown that seamen from home do not reconcile themselves to these conditions, and that Maltese ratings are the more satisfactory, principally because of the fact that they have opportunities of visiting their homes occasionally. The rates of pay received by the Maltese ratings, who also are British subjects, are the same as would be paid to seamen born in the United Kingdom.

Sir B. FALLE

Is there any unemployment in Malta?

Mr. AMMON

I should have notice of that question.