HC Deb 01 August 1944 vol 402 cc1189-90W
Major Neven-Spence

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether any steps are being taken to provide training for boys for engine-room and stokehold duties in the Merchant Navy.

Mr. Noel-Baker

There are schools for the training for firemen and trimmers at London, Glasgow, Liverpool, Cardiff and Newcastle, but youths under 18 are debarred by the provisions of the Merchant Shipping (International Labour Conventions) Act, 1925, from undertaking these duties on board ship, and entry into the schools is accordingly restricted to youths of 18 and over.

Major Neven-Spenee

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether boys who obtain the equivalent of a first-class Wallasey pass at the preparatory course for deck boys, recently established by Leith Nautical College, will be able to enter the Merchant Navy on the same specially favourable terms as boys who obtain a first-class pass at Wallasey.

Mr. Noel-Baker

The proposal of the Leith Nautical College to start a preliminary course for deck boys in September has only been brought to my notice recently. I am arranging for the position to be investigated by one of the Ministry's Surveyors and will then communicate further with my hon. and gallant Friend.