HC Deb 24 January 1984 vol 52 cc459-60W
Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the shortage of technical officers in the Royal Navy as the result of his decision to retain ships in service longer than planned on account of the commitment in the south Atlantic.

Mr. Stanley

There is a shortage of some 10 junior engineer officers directly attributable to the south Atlantic commitment.

Mr. Dalyell

asked the Secretary of State for Defence why he estimates that fewer ratings are seeking Royal Navy commissions.

Mr. Stanley

The increased number of ratings commissioned in their early twenties under the upper yardmen scheme has led to a reduction in the number of older ratings commissioned.

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