§ 14. Captain PETER MACDONALDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what is the present approximate number of naval officers borne on the retired and emergency lists who are under the age of 35 and who were obliged to retire owing to the post-war reduction in the size of His Majesty's Navy; and whether, in view of the expansion now proceeding, he will consider replacing on the active list a certain number of these officers who are anxious to return?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe number of executive officers now under the age of 35 who left the Royal Navy under the various special retirement schemes is 88, of whom 69 retired voluntarily. As regards the second part of the question, it is anticipated that any shortage that may arise in the near future will be of junior lieutenants and, therefore, that the question of re-entry will not arise for consideration, except in a small proportion of the number quoted above.
§ Captain MACDONALDWill consideration be given to those who make application?
§ Sir S. HOAREI shall be happy to take into account any cases that my hon. and gallant Friend brings to my attention.