§ Mr. Willisasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what qualifications are required of stokers promoted to rank of probationary acting sub-lieutenant (E); whether they receive any practical and technical training prior to promotion; and whether they have to pass an examination comparable to that normally required of candidates for the rank of acting sub-lieutenant (E).
Mr. DugdaleStoker mechanics who are candidates for promotion to commissioned rank have first to pass for the rating of acting leading stoker mechanic in which they must serve for one year at sea, after which they undergo the course of training for mechanician, lasting two years. They have then to serve as mechanician for 18 months, and to pass the same qualifying examination for acting sub-lieutenant (E) as that taken by engine room artificer candidates for promotion.