§ CAPTAIN SELWYN (Cambridge, Wisbeach)asked the Secretary of State for War, How many regimental officers are now serving in contravention of Section 5, Paragraph 76, of the Queen's Regulations for the Army; whether the Regulation in this paragraph applies to military attachés and to officers on the Staff of the Viceroy of India; and, if not, why these officers are allowed to be absent from their regiments for more than five or six years; how long have the military attachés at Paris and Berlin, and the military secretary to the Viceroy of India, been absent from their regiments; and, whether, after such absence, these officers are to be allowed to return and in a short time command their regiments?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Mr. E. STANHOPE) (Lincolnshire, Horncastle)There are now seven officers serving on the personal Staff of General Officers who have exceeded the period of Staff service laid down in the Queen's Regulations; but in every case their retention of office has been advisedly sanctioned. The Rule does not apply to military attachés who hold their appointments for a period of five years, subject to renewal if considered desirable for the good of the Service. The Staff of the Viceroy of India and of Colonial Governors are appointed for six years. The military attaché at Paris has been absent from his regiment since January 1, 1877. During that time he has held several appointments with advantage to the State, and has taken a distinguished part in two campaigns. The military attaché at Berlin has been continuously absent from his regiment since January, 1879. He also has served with distinction during that period in 895 two campaigns. His second period of service shortly expires, and he is to rejoin his battalion as second in command. The military secretary to the Viceroy of India has held positions on the personal Staff of successive Viceroys at their particular request since December, 1875. While serving on the Staff he has taken part in three campaigns, in one of which he earned the Victoria Cross.