HC Deb 17 December 1941 vol 376 c1926
32. Sir T. Moore

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will consider recommending that the Merchant Navy be granted the prefix of "Royal" to mark the gratitude of the country for their courage and endurance and excellent services?

Colonel Llewellin

I have been asked to reply. My noble Friend the Minister of War Transport fully shares the admiration and gratitude for the work of the Merchant Navy which prompts this Question. But, unlike the Royal Navy, the Merchant Navy does not consist of vessels owned or in normal times controlled by the Crown nor is its personnel enrolled in a public service in the accepted sense of that term. My noble Friend therefore takes the view that the suggestion is not one which could be appropriately submitted.

Sir T. Moore

Could some other means be devised of showing the nation's gratitude to this gallant band of men?

Colonel Llewellin

I think that everyone in this House and throughout the country is most grateful to these very gallant officers and men.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

Would not the best method of appreciation be improved status and conditions for these officers and men?

Colonel Llewellin

I think we are improving them with every week that passes.

Lieut.-Commander Braithwaite

Will that be continued in the post-war period?

Colonel Llewellin

I should require notice of that Question.