HC Deb 30 November 1960 vol 631 c384
32. Commander Kerans

asked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty if he is satisfied with the rate at which naval ratings are extending their engagements.

Mr. C. Ian Orr-Ewing

Re-engagement after twelve years of service is now at the rate of 65 per cent., compared with under 40 per cent., before 1957. This is the highest since 1936, when it was 69 per cent.

The rate for men completing engagements for nine years is about 70 per cent.

The rate for men at the end of seven year engagements is 40 per cent. compared with only 10 per cent. four years ago.

These rates have improved remarkably in recent years. I think these facts prove that a very high proportion of men in the Royal Navy regard it as a service offering a good life and a very worthwhile career.

Commander Kerans

Are these very reasonable results reflected in the difficult categories such as sick-bay attendants and stores ratings?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I am very glad to say that these encouraging results are spread over most of the difficult categories as well.