§ 23. Major HORE-BELISHAasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what effect the introduction of oil fuel into the Royal Navy, and the extension of its use, has had upon the stoker branch both as regards numbers and promotion; whether he has considered the prospective effect of oil-fuel development upon this branch of the Royal Navy; and whether he will state the views of the Admiralty upon this important matter?
Mr. DAVIDSONAs the result of the introduction of oil fuel into the Royal Navy, smaller numbers of stoker ratings are required in ships' complements. The proportion of higher to lower stoker ratings has, however, increased, and this naturally tends to increase the prospects of advancement.