§ 15. Mr. HORE-BELISHAasked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many en-apprentices have been discharged from Devonport Dockyard in the last six months; the reasons for their discharge; and whether, seeing that ex-apprentices have had to pass a bard test and have spent four years being especially trained in dockyard service, he will consider putting a more satisfactory scheme into operation whereby apprentices may not find themselves discharged on completion of their apprenticeship?
Mr. ALEXANDERWith reference to the first part of the question, 34 ex-apprentices were discharged from Devon-part Dockyard during the six months ended the 29th November, 1930. Of this number 10 were discharged at their own 2201 request; 21 on reduction and three on account of an adjustment of trades. As regards the second part of the question, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given in reply to his question on the 12th November, 1930 (OFFICIAL REPORT, col. 1652).