HC Deb 29 October 1929 vol 231 cc10-1
19. Sir B. FALLE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if the number of the personnel, men and boys, of the Royal Navy has been reduced since July, 1929; and if the enlistment of boys and ratings, respectively, has been and is now normal?

Mr. AMMON

On the 15th October the personnel of the Navy had been reduced since the 15th July by 706. The enlistments of boys and ratings are still both below normal.

Sir B. FALLE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in Portsmouth they are enlisting six boys per week?

Mr. AMMON

I am obliged to the hon. Member for the information.

Viscountess ASTOR

Will the hon. Member bear in mind how dangerous a thing it is to make a political question of the Navy and the dockyards?