§ Lieut.-Colonel Macnamaraasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether he is aware of the hardship suffered by merchant seamen who are not being paid when sick, or who must establish themselves with clothes suitable for industry if they are discharged from the Merchant Navy through being unfit; and whether he is taking any steps to organise the Merchant Navy as a service which will cater, as do other services, for such contingencies?
§ Colonel LlewellinOfficers are at present entitled to sick leave up to two months a year, and men receive the same insurance benefits as other industrial workers. Arrangements have been made by the industry under which, from 1st January, 1942, officers and men if sick abroad will receive up to 12 weeks sick leave. I am not aware that officers or men leaving the Merchant Navy on grounds of ill-health have difficulty as regards clothing. Such-cases are not likely to arise for, in general, the clothing worn at sea, or carried to sea by officers who wear uniform, is suitable for ordinary purposes ashore.