Royal Navy (Senior Electrical Ratings)

Dr. Bennett
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is now the strength of the Royal Navy in skilled senior electrical ratings; what proportion this represents of the authorised establishment; and what were the corresponding figures in 1964.

Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieu
As a rule, we do not give detailed figures of this sort; but, broadly, the shortage is now 8 per cent., and was 10 per cent. in 1964.