§ 59. Mr. Parkerasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty the number of boys serving in the Navy; the ages at which they entered; and for what periods they signed on in addition to their boy service.
Mr. Dugdale:On 30th September last, 7,870 boys were serving in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines. They entered at ages varying from 14 to 17. All the boys signed on for 12 years' service from the age of 18, except for a few boy musicians who, having some knowledge of music and being over 16½ on entry, may elect to serve for seven years followed by five years in the Reserve, in addition to their boys service. Seamen and communication boys and boy buglers have the option, immediately before reaching the age of 18, of transferring, at the age of 18, to a Special Service engagement of seven years with the Fleet followed by five years in the Reserve.