HC Deb 06 May 1924 vol 173 cc237-8W
Sir T. BRAMSDON

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he is aware that, on account of shortage, sick-berth petty officers are being employed at Haslar Hospital to carry out the duties of sick-berth chief petty officers; that three sick-berth chief petty officers within their last year of service are now serving His Majesty's ships "Barham," "Queen Elizabeth" and "Hermes," respectively, and that when these ships are in foreign waters these chief petty officers are not available for immediate discharge; and what is the object of adopting this course?

Mr. HODGES

Two sick-berth petty officers are employed at Haslar in lieu of sick-berth chief petty officers. With regard to the second part of the question, these ships being attached to the Atlantic Fleet, ratings in their last year of service may be sent to them. With regard to the third part of the question, any such men will be relieved before these ships go to the Mediterranean. The fourth part of the question does not arise.