§ Sir B. FALLEasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether a sergeant of the Royal Marines who transfers to the rating of regulating petty officer would be eligible for promotion to the rank of mate; and, if so, whether a writer petty officer who had also transferred to the rating of regulating petty officer would also be eligible?
§ Mr. HODGESAny rating who transfers to the regulating branch is eligible to become a candidate for promotion to mate, provided he satisfies the conditions laid down as regards age, and is able to pass the educational test and seamanship examination. It is, however, very unlikely that a sergeant of the Royal Marines would be of such an age as to allow him to qualify.