HC Deb 03 February 1943 vol 386 c883
29. Sir A. Southby

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in view of the fact that it is a war bonus, the increase in pay to boys in the Royal Navy, which was announced on Wednesday, 27th January, will be made retrospective to the date of the commencement of the war?

Mr. Alexander

No, Sir.

Sir A. Southby

Will the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that the pitiful increase which has been given to these boys compares badly with the emoluments which boys are able to obtain in other walks of life, and will he take some steps to remedy the matter?

Mr. Alexander

The position has been agreed with all the Departments concerned and has reference, of course, to all the other advantages of the emoluments and training of the boys.

Sir A. Southby

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to compare the emoluments of boys in the Royal Navy with the emoluments of boys of the same age employed in the coalmines, to which they are allowed to opt?