§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the naval cooks employed at the Royal Naval Barracks, Devonport, work in two watches and that the number of hours of duty weekly average from 110 to 118; whether this is due to the shortage of cook ratings; and, if so. if he will take an early opportunity of so raising their number as to prevent these excessive hours of duty?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAInquiry, regarding these matters is being made, and I will communicate with my hon. Friend when the necessary information has been obtained.
§ Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKEasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to the scarcity of honours conferred on naval cooks during the War; that these men have not only to fight themselves, but to feed the other men who fight, and after the battle is over to get the food ready for the other ratings; and, in view of their work during the War and their rate of pay, he will consider the advisability of including a larger number of naval cooks in the list of honours conferred for war services?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAMy hon. Friend will realise that the ordinary duties of cook ratings do not present as many opportunities for displaying those qualities which are appropriately rewarded by the bestowal of medals for gallantry as do the duties of ratings of other branches In cases where cook ratings have dis- 351W played such qualities, it is unlikely that their services have been overlooked. As an instance, it may be stated that at the Battle of Jutland two cook ratings earned for themselves the Distinguished Service Medal; whilst on the same occasion two other cook ratings were mentioned in the London "Gazette" in recognition of their services. Cook ratings are eligible for the Meritorious Service Medal which was adopted for the Navy in January last, and it is psssible that a certain number of cook ratings will be recommended for this award. The award of a medal for Conspicuous Gallantry, Distinguished Service, or Meritorious Service depends in no way upon the rate of pay to which a rating may be entitled, but entirely upon the gallant, distinguished, or meritorious service rendered.