§ Mr. CROOKSasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that Frederick Rhodes, chief mate of the steamship "Marquess of Hartington," War Department vessel, sat, in accordance with the Board of Trade regulations, for a master's certificate on 20th October, 1910, and passed the necessary examination; that the proper form was given to be presented to the Board of Trade for the issue of a master's certificate, and that this has been refused; and will he arrange for such certificate to be issued without delay?
Mr. BUXTONThe Regulations relating to the examination of masters and mates provide that if, after a candidate has passed the examination for a certifi-
700Wcate, it is discovered on further investigation that his services are insufficient to entitle him to receive the certificate, the certificate shall not be granted. In the case referred to by my hon. Friend it was discovered after the examination that the candidate's previous service was not such as to qualify him to hold a certificate as master of a foreign-going vessel. I regret that I am unable to modify the decision
arrived at. An offer has already been made to refund the fee charged for the examination.