§ 15. Captain PLUGGEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what is the present policy of the Admiralty with regard to giving permission for retired officers and men of the Royal Navy to join the Territorials; what alternative means are at the disposal of retired officers and men who wish to undergo occasional training which would render their services of value to the State in the event of emergency; and whether he will review this matter on account of the many retired officers and men who are now anxious but unable to obtain occasional naval or military training of any kind?
§ Sir S. HOAREIn order to utilise the training of retired naval officers to the best national advantage it is necessary for the Admiralty to retain the prior claim on those who are likely to be required in an emergency, but in other cases they are given permission to join the Territorial Army. Men who have served as naval ratings are at liberty to enlist in the Territorial Army with the exception of those who, as naval pensioners or naval reservists, will be required in an emergency for service in the Navy. Training for naval officers after retirement is provided for those who are earmarked for appointments requiring such special training, and ratings of the Royal Fleet Reserve, Class B, train for one week biennially. The question is constantly under review.
§ Captain PLUGGEDoes my right hon. Friend not consider that machinery should be devised by which naval officers who had to retire during the period of disarmament would be able to 972 rejoin the Services and be of further use to the country in the present emergency?
§ Sir S. HOAREI think that question raises a somewhat different issue, but I will certainly keep my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion in mind.