Colonel NEWMANasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether men of the Royal Naval Reserve are entitled to pay at the rate of 1s per diem and men of the Royal Fleet Reserve at the rate of 6d.; and, if so, what is the reason for the difference drawn between the two reserves; and is it intended to equalise the rates?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI presume my hon. and gallant Friend is referring to the retainers paid to each Reserve, and not to the daily pay when mobilised. Royal Naval Reserve men receive peace retainers varying from £4 to £10 a year, and war retainer of £12. Royal Fleet Reserve men, Class B, receive a peace retainer of 6d. at day, and a war retainer of 8d. a day. Royal Fleet Reserve men, Class A, who are pensioners, get no retainer. The future rates and conditions of retainer for each Reserve are at present under consideration.