“HELLSHIP” OF THE NAVY

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLVI, Issue 21362, 3 June 1939, Page 8

“HELLSHIP” OF THE NAVY

; Conditions on Endeavour Admiralty Inquiry Opens Ratings Give Evidence By Telegraph—Press Association AUCKLAND, June 2. An inquiry into an allegation of disaffection in the survey ship “Endeavour,”, as ordered by the Admiralty after questions had been asked in the House of Commons, was opened at the Devonport Naval Base to-day. The Commander of the “Endeavour,” Captain Wyatt, was present. A start was made with the inquiry at 9 a.m., and with the exception of an adjournment for lunch it continued until late in the afternoon. It is stated that the task is not yet completed. During the day the Court concerned itself for the most part with sending for “Endeavour” ratings who had been punished by warrant. These men were , asked questions about the actions for ; which they were punished. All men on the ship who considered j that they had cause for complaint had previously been invited to place their I complaints before the inquiry. However, so far as could be learned since, : the inquiry is of a strictly confidential nature, and little time was found after sending for the men who had been punished to deal With any complaints that might be volunteered by the men.

It is not expected on the lower deck that many men will level complaints unless they are sent for by the Court. Large numbers of the men seen on shore said that they could see no advantage in pursuing the matter, because they would be paying off and leaving the ship for England when she was recommissioned in August. EARLIER MESSAGES QUESTIONS IN HOUSE OF COMMONS A cable message received on May 8 stated:—The survey ship Endeavour, now in New Zealand waters, has the reputation of being the Navy’s “hellship,” states “Reynold’s News.” Fifteen seamen deserted in 18 months, 11 have broken out of the ship, and 128 have over-stayed their leave. Ratings write home complaining of the harass and drive of the routine aboard. The parents of the men are greatly concerned. Mr H. J. Parker, Labour M.P.. intends to ask again in the House of Commons if the Admiralty considers conditions aboard are satisfactory.

A cablegram received from London on April 27 stated: The Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (Mr S. H. Shakespeare), replying to an allegation of discontent among lower deck ratings on H.M.S. Endeavour since the Endeavour was commissioned for survey service in New Zealand two years ago, said that there were 15 desertions. No complaint had reached the Admiralty regarding conditions on board, but it was obtaining a report.

A London message dated May 4 stated: Mr Shakespeare to-day gave details in the House of Commons of the short leave granted aboard H.M.S. Endeavour at Auckland and Russell. He considered that the recreational facilities were excellent at the former port, but had no information regarding the latter.