§ 18. Mr. ROBERT YOUNGasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty for what purpose lectures on engineering subjects arc given to engineer officers of the Royal Navy; what the subjects are and whether they are confined to officers ranging from admirals to lieutenants; and, if so, whether the arrangements could be extended to chief engine-room artificers and engine-room artificers when in the depots after foreign service?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Lieut.-Colonel Headlam)I presume that the hon. Member is referring to monthly meetings of engineer officers at the home ports, which are held for the purpose of exchange of experience and opinions by means of lectures and discussions. The subjects are those of the problems of naval engineering practice and development. They are not confined to specific ranks of officers, but are open to all commissioned and warrant officers. A desire for similar meetings is not known to exist among chief engine-room artificers and engine-room artificers, but, should such be brought to light through the channels which exist for such purposes, it will receive due consideration.
§ Mr. YOUNGWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman remember, if application is made for these lectures, that the men concerned are men who have to earn their livelihood as engineers when they leave the Service?
§ Lieut.-Colonel HEADLAMindicated assent.