HC Deb 17 July 1879 vol 248 cc620-1
MR. BIDDULPH

asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether in the case of a midshipman who has passed his examination for his sub-Lieutenancy, and who wishes to exchange into the Army, and being eligible in other respects, as to age and good conduct, he sees any reason why he should not be placed in as favourable a position as a Militia Officer who has served his two trainings and passed the examination required of him for a commission in the Army; and whether, he will consider the propriety of altering the regulations which at present will not permit him to do so?

COLONEL STANLEY

, in reply, said, he had not had time to look very strictly into the matter, but he was informed the conditions of the service were entirely different. The experience required in a sub-lieutenant in the Navy would scarcely be equivalent to that of a Militia officer in the case supposed. But a sub-lieutenant in the Navy, if not disqualified by age, would still be able to enter the Army through the Militia.