§ Mr. ARTHUR LEEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the privilege of wearing plain clothes when not on duty is extended to sergeants of the Royal Marines at Plymouth, Chatham, and Walmer, whilst at Forton this privilege is restricted to men of the rank of colour-sergeant; and, if so, whether, without detriment to the public service, he could 1626W issue instructions for the grant of this privilege to be made uniform in all Marine divisions?
§ Mr. McKENNAThe Regulation as to wearing plain clothes by non-commissioned officers below the rank of colour-sergeant, and men, Royal Marines, under the conditions slated, is the same at all divisions and the depot, namely: "Permission may be given by commanding officers to non-commissioned officers below the rank of colour sergeant, and to men of good character, to dress in plain clothes when on furlough or pass away from their station, and, subject to the approval of the Officer Commanding Troops, and with the concurrence of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, when on pass at their station." Permission under this Regulation was granted at all Royal Marine establishments, except at Forton, but instructions have been issued for the privilege to be granted to all non-commissioned officers and men requiring it at this establishment also.