§ Commander BELLAIRS asked the Minister of Labour whether naval electricians on leaving the Navy are able to join a Trade Union?
53W§ Dr. MACNAMARA: It is presumed that my hon. and gallant Friend refers to electrical artificers. I understand that according to the Regulations laid down by the Admiralty such men on entering the Navy must be thoroughly efficient fitters and turners or instrument makers with at least five years' practical experience. So far as I am aware, such men on discharge are accepted for membership by the appropriate trade union. If, however, my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind the case of certain seamen ratings, such as torpedo gunners' mates, leading torpedo men, and seamen torpedo men, I understand that these men are not in general freely admitted to full membership of craft unions on leaving the service, not having been employed in mechanic ratings.