HC Deb 21 March 1939 vol 345 c1091
5. Captain Plugge

asked the Secretary of State for War what is the present system of promoting officers in the Territorial Army; whether he is satisfied with it, or whether he intends any revision?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

The general system is promotion into vacancies in establishments by seniority subject to efficiency. The answer to the last part of the question is "No, Sir"

Captain Plugge

Is my right hon. Friend satisfied that the system of promotion in the Territorial Army is as efficient as his own revised system of promotion in the Regular Army?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

In the circumstances, I think it is as satisfactory as the conditions can make it, but needless to say, if my hon. and gallant Friend can suggest any improvements, I shall be very glad to have them.

Lieut.-Colonel Sir A. Lambert Ward

Is it not the fact that the system of seniority, plus a certifying examination, has worked very well up to the present?

Mr. Hore-Belisha

I have always understood so.