§ Sir W. Waylandasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of War Transport whether His Majesty's Government propose to accord to the personnel of the Merchant Navy any recognition of its splendid services on the same lines as the Services gratuities.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerHis Majesty's Government have frequently expressed their deep appreciation of the magnificent services rendered to the nation by the officers and men of the Merchant Navy. But they must take into consideration the fact that these officers and men have been employed throughout the war at industrial rates of wages, negotiated and settled by the National Maritime Board. In view of this fact, the Government consider that they would not be justified in granting to the men of the Merchant Navy the gratuities which the Services will receive.