asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty whether he is satisfied with the administrative arrangements of his Department in connection with the demobilisation of W.R.N.S. ratings; whether he is aware that, in some cases, ratings are only notified 10 days in advance of the date of their discharge; and whether arrangements will be made for the earlier notification of the date of discharge in order to enable these girls to make proper provision for their future.

Yes, Sir. Ten days' notice is given of the commencement of a release period, and each period normally covers six weeks. Thus, ten days is the minimum notice. In addition, so far as is compatible with Service requirements, latitude is allowed as to the actual date of release within the period to enable a girl to make provision for her immediate future. The 56 days' leave on full pay is expressly designed to enable members of the Forces to make long-term arrangements for their future.

Will the hon. Gentleman look at this matter again to see if he cannot do something to avoid the inconvenience which is inevitable in the system about which he has told us?

I am afraid I cannot admit that there is any inconvenience, but I will certainly look into any individual case which the right hon. Gentleman can produce. It is quite satisfactory, as far as I can see.

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will look at the case of a member of the Forces who receives only 10 days' notice to leave?

Certainly, Sir.