§ 5. Sir Ronald Rossasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what new measures are to be taken to encourage seaman ratings to re-engage on the conclusion of their periods of service.
§ Mr. W. EdwardsAs stated in the reply to the hon. and gallant Member for Chelsea (Commander Noble) on 19th October, consideration is being given to this matter, but I am not yet able to announce any decision.
§ Sir R. RossDoes the Civil Lord think he will soon be able to give a definite reply to this important question?
§ Mr. EdwardsI am rather hopeful, but it is not entirely in our hands.
Mr. J. P. L. ThomasMay. I ask whether the Civil Lord is considering the suggestion I made during the Debate on the last Navy Estimates, that the American short service engagement idea should be considered by the Admiralty?
§ Mr. EdwardsThat is a different question altogether. This is a question of re-engaging after 12 years' service.