Mr. FENWICKasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he could state the rate of wage paid to artificer engineers at the time they enter His Majesty's service; when such rate was fixed; how long they must serve before they are entitled to increased pay; and whether he can see his way to provide that promotion shall follow seniority of pass rather than length of service?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe rate of pay of an engine-room artificer on entry as acting engine-room artificer, 4th class, is 5s. 6d. a day; this rate was fixed on the 30th November, 1882; and increased pay can be received after three years' service. I regret to have to inform my hon. Friend that there is no change in the circumstances which would justify the suggested alteration of practice.