Good Conduct Gratuity

HC Deb 20 February 1946 vol 419 cc1144-5

43. Mr. Willis

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether ratings who, after their first 12 years' engagement did not engage for a further period, but were retained in the Service during recent hostilities and completed 15 years of continuous very good conduct, are eligible for the payment of good conduct gratuity; and if not, whether he will consider amending Article 534, K.R. and A.I., to permit the payment of the gratuity in these cases.

Mr. Alexander

No, Sir. The gratuity associated with the Royal Naval Long Service and Good Conduct Medal is payable only to men who have re-engaged to complete their time for pension. One of its objects is to induce men of good character to sign on to complete time, and it cannot be extended to men who have decided not to sign on.

Mr. Willis

In view of the fact that these men do get this medal and the payment is associated with the medal will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider this matter?

Mr. Alexander

The men had their opportunity to sign at the end of their 12 years and they have not done so. That is the real object of the payment.