HC Deb 08 March 1938 vol 332 cc1735-6W
Sir R. Young

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will state the ages of the artificers promoted to commissioned rank in 1937 on the date of their commissions and the age limits of Dartmouth College and special entry cadets on being commissioned?

Mr. Shakespeare

The ages of the engine-room artificers who were promoted to the rank of Acting Sub-Lieutenant (E) during 1937 ranged from 22 years 6 months to 24 years 6 months at the time of promotion.

Officers from the R.N. College, Dartmouth, normally reach the rank of Acting Sub-Lieutenant (E) between the ages of 20 and 20 years 4 months and those for the special entry, between the ages of 20 years 4 months and 22 years. At present, however, the promotion of these officers to that rank takes place a little earlier, as the training period has been shortened as a temporary measure.

Sir R. Young

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he will state the number of engine-room artificers and stoker ratings who, in 1937, were reported on the special form from the shore-training and other establishments and sea-going ships, respectively, as likely to make suitable commissioned officers; the number on 1st January, 1937, continuing from previous years; the number terminated during the year; and the number continuing at present?

Mr. Shakespeare

The information required by the hon. Member is contained in the following table:

Engine-Room Artificers and Stoker Ratings reported as likely to be suitable for Commissioned Rank.
Number of reports current, 1st January, 1937 34
Number of reports started during 1937, in shore establishments 12
Number of reports started during 1937, in sea-going ships 22
Number of reports terminated during 1937 18
Number of reports at present current 51*
* Includes one started in 1938.