HC Deb 22 February 1870 vol 199 cc689-90
LORT RONALD GOWER

said, he would beg to ask the Secretary of State for War, Whether his attention has been called to a letter in "The Times" of the 7th, signed "H. P.," in which it is stated that the Colonels on half-pay of the purchase Army receive nothing from the Country for their services, and that the interest of their money paid to the Secretary of State for War is more than sufficient to provide their half-pay, and if those statements are correct?

MR. CARDWELL

Sir, a lieutenant colonel in the Army has three choices before him. He may remain in the Army till he becomes a major general, or he may wish to retire by the sale of his commission; or, if he prefer to go on half-pay, he may do so, retaining his rank in the Army and his right to become a major general, with a prospect of employment on the staff. By an arrangement made with the Treasury some time ago, for the convenience of officers, and in order to give promotions in the regiment, the proceeds of the amount for which the commission is sold is paid into a reserve fund. It is quite true that the half-pay of a lieutenant colonel is only a moderate rate of interest on the price of his commission.