Mr. Bellenģer:

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he has any plans ready for recruitment for the Navy on a voluntary basis; and whether he is satisfied that he can obtain sufficient numbers of officers and ratings by this method.

The conditions under which men are invited to volunteer for the Navy are being reviewed; in the meantime the pre-war arrangements remain in force. The answer to the second part of the Question is "Yes, Sir."

Mr. Bellenģer:

Can my right hon. Friend say whether that review includes pay and allowances and other matters of that nature affecting long-term engagements in the Navy?

Naturally the Admiralty, in reviewing the matter, would take all relevant considerations into account.

Commander AÄ£new:

Is it the case that men are already coming forward willing to sign for a 12 years' engagement?

I would like to have notice of that question.