HC Deb 01 August 1918 vol 109 c634W
Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a considerable number of naval pensioners over fifty-five years of age are now serving afloat, and that many of them have been away from home since the commencement of the War; and can he see his way to recall these men to home billets and allow younger men who have not yet seen active service to take their place?

Dr. MACNAMARA

Generally speaking, the policy is to bring home the older pensioners and Reservists who have been a long time abroad; much has been done in this direction, and it is proposed to continue this policy. The number of cases such as those suggested in the question cannot be numerous, and I shall be very grateful if my hon. Friend will give particulars of the case of any rating over fifty-five years of age who is serving afloat and who has been away from home since the commencement of the War, when he will be at once relieved.