HC Deb 18 June 1931 vol 253 c1946
73. Mr. HORE-BEL1SHA

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he can give the numbers of higher engine-room ratings who requested to undertake vocational training courses; and how many were refused during the period 1st January to 31st March, 1931?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Ammon)

I regret that this information is not available nor immediately procurable without a good deal of compilation. If the hon. Member has in mind particular cases and will communicate them, they could be looked into.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Is it the policy of the Admiralty to refuse vocational training to any of these ratings who desire to have it?

Mr. AMMON

If the hon. Member can bring any evidence of that we will look into it.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I am asking what is the policy. Is it to refuse it or to give it?

Mr. AMMON

I have asked the hon. Member to substantiate the statement in his question.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Does the hon. Gentleman appreciate that I will answer his question when I sit on that bench?

Mr. AMMON

I do not suppose the hon. Member or I will live long enough for that to happen.