MR. O'CONNOR POWERasked the Secretary of State for War, If it is not usual to allow non-commissioned officers of good conduct and exemplary character to remain in the Army after the full period of twenty-one years' service if they wish to remain; and, whether commanding officers of regiments have any authority to discharge such non-commissioned officers so long as they are able and willing to serve?
§ MR. CHILDERSIn reply to the hon. Gentleman, I have to say that all non-commissioned officers who express a desire to continue in the Service after the full period of 21 years, and whose applications are approved by the competent military authorities, are usually allowed to remain in the Army, under Section 82 of the Army Discipline and Regulation Act, 1879. Should a non-commissioned officer not express such a 766 desire, his discharge is proceeded with on the completion of his term of service. But should he express such a wish, it rests with the competent military authorities to approve, his commanding officer being bound to forward his application to the War Office.