§ 14. Mr. Loftusasked the Minister of Shipping whether arrangements will be made to furnish the members of the Mercantile Marine with a badge to denote that they are in the Merchant Navy, particularly as there is no prescribed uniform for seafarers other than officers?
§ Sir J. GilmourYes, Sir. I am glad to be able to say that His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to approve of the issue of a badge for the Mercantile Marine. Arrangements are being made for the distribution of this badge to officers and men in the Merchant Navy to begin on 1st January next.
§ Mr. LoftusWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, which will be received with general satisfaction, may I ask whether the same privilege will be extended to fishermen on trawlers and drifters who are also facing full war-time dangers?
§ Sir J. GilmourYes, Sir. Badges will be issued to deep-sea fishermen, with the representatives of whom we are in consultation.
§ Mr. ShinwellWill the right hon. Gentleman see that the best conditions accompany the issue of badges?