§ COLONEL HOWARD VINCENTI beg to ask the Secretary of State for War if any decision has been arrived at with regard to the recognition of 25 years or so gratuitous service in the Volunteer Force of non-commissioned officers and 1183 privates, in some such manner as Her Majesty has been graciously pleased to recognise that of the officers; and in such case, if, having regard to the detraction such distinctions suffer if awarded simply by mere years in some sinecure capacity, Commanding Officers will be held more strictly responsible than in the past, that their recommendations are based only upon especially zealous and active service, particulars of which must be submitted to superior authority?
§ * THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOE WAR (Mr. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN, Stirling, &c.)I stated some time ago that this question was under consideration; I shall be able to announce my decision upon it when the Volunteer Vote is reached in Committee of Supply.
§ COLONEL HOWARD VINCENTWhen will that be?
§ * MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI cannot say. It does not depend on me.