HC Deb 07 March 1951 vol 485 cc412-3
8. Commander Noble

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what bounty will be paid to officers of the Emergency List, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, and the Royal Naval Volunteer (Supplementary) Reserve, who are now being called up for 18 months' service.

Mr. Callaghan

This matter is under consideration.

Commander Noble

Could the Minister say when a decision will be reached?

Mr. Callaghan

No, Sir.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

In view of the fact that the numbers required are not very large, is it not desirable that the Royal Naval Volunteers should, in fact, be volunteers in this matter? Would it not be better if an inducement were given to that end so that the hon. Gentleman would get the numbers he requires without the necessity of an actual call-up?

Mr. Callaghan

The principle is still to be determined, and the other Services, particularly the R.A.F., are concerned in this matter.

Commander Noble

Would the Minister give an assurance that if, in fact, a bounty is granted, those who volunteer before its announcement will get it?

Mr. Callaghan

I have not said anything which would lead the hon. and gallant Gentleman to believe that a bounty will be granted.