asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty how many of the 47 candidates, declared successful for entry as naval cadets in consequence of the November, 1946, Common Entrance Examination, commenced their education in elementary schools.

Mr. Dugdale:

Particulars furnished by parents as to their sons' earliest schools are not sufficiently precise in all cases to permit a categorical answer to this Question, but, from the information supplied by parents, it appears that at least six of the 47 Dartmouth cadets entered in January, 1947, had attended elementary schools. Five of these boys won scholarships from State-aided schools. In addition, seven other boys were granted scholarships from State-aided schools on this occasion.

If the Admiralty are really bent on equality of opportunity in the Navy, is not this a point to which they should direct their attention in all equity?

Mr. Dugdale:

Certainly, Sir, it is, have stated on previous occasions that the First Lord is inquiring into the Dartmouth system.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary say how many scholarships were available in these schools?

Mr. Dugdale:

No. Sir, not offhand.

Does not my hon. Friend consider it high time that promotions came from the lower deck?