HC Deb 10 March 1926 vol 192 c2266
20. Mr. HORE-BELISHA

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware of the feeling among the relations of artificer apprentices that the recent alteration in the dress regulations of apprentices, namely, the wearing of black horn buttons instead of gold ones, is looked upon as a mark of degradation; and whether he will make a statement to relieve their anxiety?

Mr. DAVIDSON

On account of the introduction of a petty officer rate for the artificer and shipwright branches, it has been found necessary to bring the uniform of artificers and shipwrights passing into the Navy in future into line with that of corresponding ratings in other branches. This change has entailed the substitution of black horn for brass (not gilt) buttons in the case of artificer apprentices.