HC Deb 11 March 1953 vol 512 cc1257-8
2. Commander Donaldson

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many recruits were received into the Royal Navy during 1952; what is the present shortage of naval ratings in relation to the allowed total complement; and what forms of publicity are in hand to attract the best types of young men towards the Service.

The First Lord of the Admiralty (Mr. J. P. L. Thomas)

Approximately 10,300 Regular ratings and Royal Marines were recruited in 1952. This was about 1,500 fewer than the numbers aimed at. Publicity is mainly concentrated on Press advertisements, but use is made of films for display to schools and youth organisations, and of the touring exhibition called "Meet the Royal Navy."

Commander Donaldson

Would my right hon. Friend consider giving more attention in his publicity to the definite benefits which may be obtained by those who join the Service, such as a petty officer who, after five years' service, will be receiving a wage of £500? I think that this might well attract people to the Service.

Mr. Thomas

I shall be very glad to bear in mind the suggestion of my hon. and gallant Friend.