HC Deb 19 May 1943 vol 389 cc1082-3
11 Commander Bower

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many captains of the Royal Navy have been promoted to the rank of rear-admiral and acting rear-admiral, respectively, without consideration of their place on the list, since 14th December, 1940?

Mr. Alexander

Since 14th December, 1940, 19 captains have been promoted to the rank of rear-admiral and five captains to the rank of acting rear-admiral, irrespective of their positions on the captains' list.

Commander Bower

Is it not a fact that, in spite of these promotions, there are still very few, even rear-admirals, under the age of 50 in the Royal Navy, with the result that the Navy, instead of being the senior Service, is rapidly becoming the senile Service?

Mr. Alexander

Any such suggestion, in view of the record of the Royal Navy in this war, is most uncalled for.

Hon. Members

Withdraw.

Commander Locker-Lampson

Is it not a very unworthy suggestion?