HC Deb 19 December 1941 vol 376 cc2252-3W
Mr. Parker

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a number of pensioner chief petty officers have been promoted to temporary warrant rank but receive no increase in their emoluments beyond 2s. a day, which is absorbed by their additional messing expenses; that a number of officers of commander's and captain's ranks are anxious to emulate the example of their subordinates by accepting the responsibilities of higher rank on the same financial basis; and whether he will afford them the opportunity?

Mr. Alexander

There is little difference between the rates of pay of some senior chief petty officers and junior warrant officers, and the special allowance of 2s. a day to which the hon. Member refers is granted to naval pensioners promoted to temporary warrant rank in order to ensure that their emoluments as officers shall be at least 2s. a day more than their emoluments as chief petty officers. This allowance of 2s. a day is in addition to the full pay and allowances of a warrant officer, and rating's pension. The maximum mess subscription for a warrant officer is Is. a day. I am unaware of any general desire on the part of commanders and captains to forego part of their pay on promotion.