§ 60. Mr. Flemingasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he will take steps to restore to Manchester, at an early date, the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve depot ship, which was stationed there for many years, but lately removed, in order that the great desire locally for enlistment in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve may be further stimulated and gratified?
§ The Civil Lord of the Admiralty (Colonel Llewellin)The establishment of new divisions of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve which the Admiralty are now considering will be sufficient to meet immediate requirements, but if further expansion of the Reserve becomes necessary, the claims of Manchester will be borne in mind.
§ Mr. FlemingDoes the answer imply that the depot ship will be restored to Manchester?
§ Colonel LlewellinNo, Sir, it does not go as far as that.
§ Mr. FlemingIs the hon. and gallant Member aware that the removal of this depot ship is greatly restricting recruitment in the Manchester area?
§ Colonel LlewellinI do not think that it need do so as those who wish to serve in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve will find facilities in the neighbouring City of Liverpool where they can enlist.