§ 64. Wing-Commander Jamesasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether, having regard to the waste involved by the policy hitherto pursued by this branch of the Defence Services, he will introduce a rule that all officers posted by the Admiralty to the Imperial Defence College, whether as instructors or students, must be given their next step in promotion, with employment upon the active list, for a stated period of years?
§ Mr. ShakespeareI regret I cannot accept my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion. The future employment and promotion of all officers in the Royal Navy must depend on their qualifications and suitability for higher rank, as proved by their services.
§ Wing-Commander JamesAs my hon. Friend is unable to accept my statement, will he look at the figures for last year?
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherWith a view to the instruction at the Defence College not being wasted, will the hon. Gentleman take steps to see that officers are appointed there only when there is a good prospect of their future employment and promotion?
§ Mr. ShakespeareThat is certainly the principle on which the election of officers to the college is made. We choose those whom we think most likely to benefit by it with a view to their later appointment to flag rank.
§ Wing-Commander JamesIs my hon. Friend aware that in comparison with
| — | Officers. | Men. | Aircraft (By Sqadrons). | ||
| His Majesty's Ship "Courageous" | … | … | 120 | 1,239 | 3 Squadrons. |
| His Majesty's Ship "Glorious" | … | … | 123 | 1,237 | 4 Squadrons. |
| His Majesty's Ship "Eagle" | … | … | 77 | 765 | 2 Squadrons. |
| His Majesty's Ship "Ark Royal" | … | … | 138 | 1,355 | 6 Squadrons. |
| His Majesty's Ship "Argus' | … | … | 38 | 452 | 1 Squadron. |