§ 36. Commander Maitlandasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he proposes to make any changes in the present system of training upper-deck ratings in gunnery and other technical subjects; and whether he is satisfied that the present system, particularly that part of it which has to be carried out at sea, is producing as good results as the old system involving non-substantive rates.
§ Mr. W. EdwardsThere has not been sufficient time, and circumstances have been too abnormal, for adequate experience to have been gained on the present system of training of upper-deck ratings in technical subjects. I can, however, say that no change in the system is at present contemplated.
§ Commander MaitlandDoes not the Civil Lord realise that just as my previous Question was about welfare, so this deals with efficiency, neither of which is improved by the present pay code. Will he not, therefore, consider setting up a technical committee to examine the whole matter?
§ Mr. EdwardsI must say that the information which has been provided by the people who have charge of the Navy—the Naval Staff—indicates that that allegation bas no foundation whatever.