44. Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennettasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what progress he has made towards the granting to extended service officers now compulsorily retained in the Service an option to take up permanent engagements.
§ Mr. CallaghanThis matter is under review. I realise that the officers concerned would like to have a decision quickly, but it will be some time yet before an announcement can be made.
Surgeon Lieut.-Commander BennettWill the hon. Gentleman bear in mind that, as these officers were so welcome to the Admiralty not only during but since the war, they are now likely to be equally welcome to the Admiralty in the longer term, and, therefore, should be entitled to expect consideration?
§ Mr. CallaghanI fully accept what the hon. and gallant Gentleman says.