HC Deb 12 November 1947 vol 444 cc79-80W
76. Major Bruce

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is now in a position to state the detailed composition of welfare committees, the methods by which democratic representation is secured and a more precise description of their functions; and whether he will give some indication of the. extent to which they are now functioning.

Mr. Dugdale

The instructions for the composition of welfare committees require that the ships or establishments shall be divided into suitable groups and any rating within the group may offer himself, or be nominated by the group, for election. The names of all candidates are published on notice boards and after a period of ten days an election is held by secret ballot. The function of the committees is to provide for free discussion between officers and men of items of welfare and general amenities within the ship or establishment that lie within the power of decision of the commanding officer or his immediate administrative authority. Committees are now functioning, or will shortly begin to function, in most ships and establishments. I am sending my hon.' Friend a copy of the relevant Admiralty Instructions on the subject.