§ Mr. Bossomasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is aware that the amount of money from capitation grants which now reaches sea cadet units is insufficient to meet the training activities of the cadets; and what steps does he propose to take in this matter.
Mr. DugdaleThe system of capitation grants for the Sea Cadets is, in general, in line with that followed by the War Office and Air Ministry in relation to their Cadet Forces. The portion of the grant paid to the Sea Cadet Unit in cash is supplemented by a portion which is paid to a Central Training Fund administered by the Sea Cadet Corps Headquarters; this is largely spent in the provision of additional training facilities and equipment. In addition, the Admiralty provide boats, uniforms and naval and armament stores of various kinds. I am aware that certain Units have represented to the Sea Cadet Council that the cash grants are inadequate but having regard to the total provision made from Navy Votes, I am not at present convinced that there is a case for increasing the caėitation grants to the Units. I will, however, have the matter investigated further.