HC Deb 08 May 1924 vol 173 cc779-80

Motion made, and Question proposed, That a sum, not exceeding £341,800, be granted to His Majesty, to defray the Expense of Educational Services, which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1925.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

We have had very little discussion upon this important question. There is not time now to go into it at any length, but I want to raise on a future occasion the question of the fees paid by the cadets in the naval training colleges. I do hope that the Government will take the matter in hand. It is not right that in this matter we should be so much behind, the American and Japanese Navies. Japan is one of the oldest monarchies in the world, and though they recruit their officers from the noble classes in Japan yet the State pays all the fees. I do hope that we may adopt a similar democratic plan in this country.

Mr. AMMON rose in his place, and claimed to move, "That the Question be now put," but the Chairman withheld his assent, and declined then to put that Question.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

I further want to raise the question of the age of entry of cadets. During the War we found that the public school boys who came to us at a later age were in many respects more efficient as officers than the cadets who came at a much earlier age. The later age gives a better chance to the boys from secondary schools and grammar schools of the country.

It being Eleven of the Clock, the Chairman left the Chair to make his Report to the House.

Resolutions to be reported upon Monday next (12th May).

Committee report Progress; to sit again upon Monday next.