§ 22. Mr. THOMAS LEWISasked the First Lord of the Admiralty the number of lieutenants (ex-mates) promoted since the regulations were revised in 1920; the number who have specialised in gunnery, torpedo, navigation, war staff duties, signals, wireless telegraphy, and antisubmarine branches; and when the first one will be due for promotion to lieutenant-commander?
§ Mr. AMMONOf the 55 ratings promoted to Mate under the 1920 Scheme, 50 remain on the Active List. Of these, 30 have been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. The remaining 20 are not yet due for promotion. The first of the above officers is due for promotion to Lieutenant - Commander on the 1st October, 1931. The following have specialised, or are under training to specialise:
| Torpedo | … | … | … | 1 |
| Pilot | … | … | … | 5 |
| Observer | … | … | … | 2 |
| Submarines | … | … | … | 6 |
| Surveyor | … | … | … | 1 |
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHACan the hon. Gentleman say when the inquiry into the mate scheme is to be opened?