§ Commander Keransasked the Minister of Transport what measures he is taking to improve the intake of Merchant Service cadets; and whether he is satisfied with the present methods of entry.
§ Vice-Admiral Hughes HallettIt is primarily for the shipping industry to 137W decide on ways of increasing the intake of cadets if this is thought desirable. There are several methods of entry into the Merchant Navy and it is good both for the cadets and the industry that this should be so. I have no reason to believe that these methods do not produce satisfactory officers. I should mention that my right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Education and Science, and my right hop. Friend are discussing with representatives of shipowners and officers, and with the navigation schools, the possibility of providing greater opportunities for further education for Merchant Navy cadets.