HC Deb 16 April 1907 vol 172 c756
*CAPTAIN FABER (Hampshire, Andover)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War what proportion of the probationers in the cavalry and Guards who lately went up for their examination passed; and whether probationers are likely to continue.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (MR. HALDANE,) Haddington

No cavalry probationers have yet been examined; the first examination will be in December next. Twenty-one Guards (including household cavalry) probationers were examined in December, 1906, and fourteen passed. The probationary scheme is only a temporary measure and will be discontinued as soon as the exigencies of the service permit.

CAPTAIN FABER

Would it not be a good thing if the colonel commanding were given the right to say whether probationers should have a Commission?

MR. HALDANE

I think the present system much better.

VISCOUNT TURNOUR (Sussex, Horsham)

Then why change it?

MR. HALDANE

was understood to reply that he only proposed to change the probationary system.