§ 30. Sir Robert Rankinasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether, in view of the large number of boys under 18 years of age not yet liable for registration who are already on a waiting list for entry into the Merchant Navy's Sea Training School, he will consider extension of the school and also arranging with the Admiralty that, in certain cases, entry into the Royal Navy might be permitted at an earlier age than at present prescribed?
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport (Mr. Noel-Baker)I am aware that there is a long waiting list of boys who desire to enter the Gravesend Sea School. But this school, together with the other sea training schools, can already supply all the 602 boys whom the Merchant Navy can absorb. No useful purpose would at present be served, therefore, by an extension of the school. I understand that the Admiralty would welcome an increased number of volunteers of 17 and 17½ years old for service with the Royal Navy. But on this matter my hon. Friend may desire to consult my right hon. Friend the First Lord.