HC Deb 03 December 1952 vol 508 cc151-2W
57. Mr. Driberg

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many time-expired men in the Royal Navy, who were retained beyond their release date on account of the emergency, are still retained; and if he will make a statement on their prospects, in relation to the decision not to call up any more Royal Fleet Reservists.

Commander Noble

Eight thousand five hundred. The number will be reduced by 1,700 by April next, and in the following 12 months the period of additional service will be progressively reduced, as announced in September last. After March, 1954, no men will be retained at the end of their normal engagements. Although the call-up of Royal Fleet reservists is now completed, recalled reservists will be serving throughout this period.