§ 31. Mr. KELLYasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether naval ratings were engaged in painting work on His Majesty's Ship "Suffolk"; if so, what number were so engaged; and what is the reason for this departure in carrying on the work at Portsmouth dockyard?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMYes, Sir, in accordance with the normal practice when a ship is in commission for trials. I have no information as to the precise number of men who have been thus employed.
§ Mr. KELLYAre we to understand that it has been the normal practice of the Portsmouth yard to engage this kind of labour?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMYes, the practice is as I have stated.