7. Mr. Callighanasked the Minister of War Transport how many officers and men have asked to be released from the Merchant Navy reserve pool, in accordance with the arrangements of 21st September, 1945; how many have been released; and when he will extend the groups to whom release applies.
§ Mr. BarnesThe announcement on 21st September, 1945, was un extension of the age and service groups eligible for release on termination of current engagements under the Merchant Navy release scheme first announced on 7th June, 1945. Since the scheme started 7,927 officers and men of the Merchant Navy have been released under these arrangements and with the exception of a few cases at present outstanding, all those eligible who have applied have been released. In addition I have agreed to follow the Services in releasing out of turn a limited number of men urgently required for the work of reconstruction, and under this head, 802 officers and men of the Merchant Navy have been released. Since the announcement of 21st September, 1945, I have further extended the age and service groups eligible for release in the case of radio officers and assistant stewards and the position remains under constant review.
§ Mr. CallaghanAs the deck and engine room ratings are still only down to group 27, and the reserve pool is growing, would 1887 not my right hon. Friend agree to give fresh consideration to this matter immediately?
§ Mr. BarnesYes; as I indicated, this matter is constantly under review, and I promise to look into it again.