12. Mr. McKieasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if it is intended to afford the next-of-kin of members of the Royal Navy under 18 years of age, who sacrificed their lives in the war, the same rate of gratuity as that afforded to the relatives of other men.
Mr. AlexanderWar gratuities paid in respect of deceased R.N. personnel are calculated on the same basis as if the gratuities had been paid to the personnel themselves. Boys who have been drafted to sea are eligible for the same rate of war gratuity as seamen of similar war service.
Mr. McKieIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is considerable feeling on the matter among the relatives of these boys under 18, and will he give the matter close consideration?
Mr. AlexanderIf the boys are under 18 when they go to sea, with the ordinary risks of sea and war, they get the same gratuities.