§ Dr. MACNAMARAThere is only one warrant writer on the active list of similar seniority as warrant writer to those promoted to commissioned writer in October, 1915, and April last, the next warrant writers on the list being two years' junior as officers. The warrant writer in question will have an opportunity of reaching commissioned rank before retirement, and no reason, therefore, is seen for increasing the number of commissioned writers to meet his case. It should be borne in mind that in promotion to commissioned warrant rank, seniority in warrant rank is taken into consideration and not seniority in the Service.
§ Mr. FLAVINasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, in view of the fact that all warrant writers have been confirmed in their rank at the normal time, thus proving their efficiency and capacity to perform the duties of assistant paymaster, Royal Navy, and taking into consideration the fact that at least 234 chief writers are recommended for warrant rank, whilst many writers entered for the period of War have now had about two years' practical experience in naval accountancy and clerical work, whether he will consider the desirability of increasing the number of warrant writers?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAFurther warrant writers are not required at present, but the position will be considered again next year.
§ Mr. FLAVINasked the First Lord of the Admiralty, in view of the fact that a, number of warrant writers have practically similar seniority in the Service to commissioned writers promoted in October, 1915, and April last, whether it would be possible to increase the numbers of commissioned writers by promoting the 1432W warrant writers previously referred to, and thus remove any injustice and hardship to these officers, who have served as long as those already promoted, but who are otherwise debarred from attaining the higher rank under existing regulations owing to reaching the age for retirement before vacancies will occur?