HC Deb 21 June 1939 vol 348 cc2230-1
68. Major Neven-Spence

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what facilities for naval training exist for young men from the counties of Orkney and Shetland and the fishing towns and villages in the North-East of Scotland who express a desire to receive training in the Navy rather than in the Militia?

Mr. Shakespeare

Young fishermen between the ages of 20 and 21 who have registered in accordance with the Military Training Act and have expressed a preference for Naval training are being enrolled in the Royal Naval Special Reserve and arrangements have been made for their training in that Reserve. The Admiralty hopes that all young fishermen will take advantage of this opportunity of fitting themselves for the service in which owing to their peace time avocation they can be of most use to their country in an emergency.

Mr. Davidson

Does the Minister welcome this new interest of the hon. and gallant Member in young fishermen?

Mr. Alexander

Where will these fishermen be taken for training?

Mr. Shakespeare

To camps and then Port Edgar.

Mr. Alexander

Will the Government pay their fares?

Mr. Shakespeare

Yes.

Mr. Leslie

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that at one time between 1,200 and 1,500 men did training at Lerwick in the Shetland Islands, and why not make it possible for them to do training there rather than send them from the remote Islands to Portsmouth?

Mr. Shakespeare

The method of training has changed since pre-War times.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

In view of the importance of this matter, will my hon. Friend consider issuing a considered statement for the benefit of fishermen who want to know the details?

Mr. Shakespeare

I think that is worth considering as soon as we can make a full statement.

Mr. George Hall

How long will these Militiamen in the Navy have to serve in the Naval Reserve?

Mr. Shakespeare

Four years, with six months continuous training.