§ Mr. J. Morrisonasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many civilian motor drivers are employed by the Royal Navy now compared with a year ago, at what weekly wage; and why these posts cannot be filled by Service drivers.
§ Mr. W. EdwardsThe number of civilian motor drivers employed by the Admiralty at establishments at home is at present approximately 3,300 as compared with 4,100 a year ago, and the number will continue to fall. The current weekly wage varies according to locality, efficiency and service, but lies within a range of 97s. 6d. to 109s. 6d. inclusive of industrial bonus and load pay. It is general Admiralty policy to employ civilians in lieu of Service personnel on duties which can be performed equally well by civilians in shore establishments as by uniformed personnel, and for which the extensive specialised training of naval personnel is unnecessary.