§ 67. Mr. Beswickasked the Minister of Transport the present release arrangements for officers and men serving in the Merchant Navy; up to what groups have releases been promulgated; and by what dates will they be released.
§ Mr. Barnes:The majority of officers and men in the Merchant Navy are following their normal occupation, and no question of a general release programme arises. For those who desire to be released, arrangements follow broadly the lines of Service releases, but since it cannot be known in advance how many will seek release, it is not possible to announce a future programme.
The groups in which officers and men arc at present eligible for release on termination of their current engagements were extended on 18th March last. I am arranging for a copy of the announcement to he circulated in the OFFICIAL REPORT. Further extensions will be approved as the manpower situation in the Merchant Navy permits.