LOST QUITE LOT BY TAKING DISCHARGE

Chronicle (Levin), 8 April 1947, Page 3

LOST QUITE LOT BY TAKING DISCHARGE

—rress. Association

By Teleg?~vh

AUCKLAXD, April 7. Furtlier wen who, following the strike of naval ratings in Auckland last week, accepted their discharge from the /service, returned to th'e Devonport base today to collect - personal belongings. Hatless and wearing civilian clothes, they stood in a small cluster outside the main gate of the dockyard awaiting their turn to be eseorted by a pettyofficer to the mosses where their kits had been left. For many of the ratings the decisions to leavo the navy has meant a substantial financial ioss. Ten per cent. of deferred pav which may total £300 or £400, is forfeited and in addition the discharged ratings are not entitled to receive the benefit of a year's retrospeetive pay at the new rates. For some classes of men the changed seale meant little or no increase above their former remuneration. For others up to £100" is involved. The base retains its deserted appcarance. Many'of the junior ratings who remain'ed on duty or who chose to return to work, were required to man the eorvette Arbutus for her voyage to the Cook Islands on Thnrsday, and petty-oflficers and ehief petty-officers remain priinarily re^ponsible for carrying out all essential work.