asked the First Lord of the Admiralty why chief and petty officers have to remove their caps when receiving their pay from an officer of the accountant branch, when Article 155 of the King's Regulations and Admiralty Instructions, as amended by Volume II, 19281, permits them to keep their caps on when being inspected by a flag officer, or captain, or by the officer in command of the ship; and if he will take the necessary steps to see that the intention of Article 151 is complied with in all ships and establishments?

I have no knowledge that chief and petty officers do remove their caps when receiving payment. I should be glad if the hon. Member would quote a specific instance, when the matter will be investigated.