§ Captain Bullockasked the First Lord of the Admiralty for what reasons his Department is releasing civil servants who joined the Navy under Class B on condition that they return to Admiralty Civil Service; and what steps were taken to co-ordinate this arrangement with the demobilisation scheme as a whole.
Mr. AlexanderThe hon. and gallant Member doubtless has in mind the transfer to reserve of a number of men who were Admiralty Civil Servants when they joined the Navy in order that they might carry out urgent civilian work under the Admiralty. These man were required to meet a critical situation in the staffing of vital services, particularly in connection with the Pacific Fleet. These arrangements, which are no longer in operation in view of the ending of the war in the Far East, were not part of the general demobilisation scheme, and were, in fact decided upon many months ago. The men concerned are liable to recall to the Navy at any moment should circumstances require.
§ Mr. Lipsonasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware of the demand made by naval personnel that on demobilisation they should receive foreign service leave with pay as do members of the other Forces; and if he will take steps to amend the existing regulations to make this possible.
Mr. AlexanderYes, Sir. The position to which the hon. Members refers has resulted from the improved conditions under which foreign service leave is now granted to the Army and the Royal Air Force. Proposals to adjust this situation have already been formulated and are being actively considered by the Departments concerned.