MR PATRICK O'BRIENI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War whether it is proposed to remedy the grievance under which the Militia O.R.C.S. of all branches of the service at present labour, namely, being deprived of all chances of advancement higher than the rank of sergeant by virtue of the position they hold; and whether, prior to the publication of Army Order 294 in 1890, the position of Militia orderly room clerk carried a progressive rank, and other inducements were offered for suitable non-commissioned officers to undertake the work without destroying their prospects of future advancement?
§ MR. WYNDHAMBefore the publication of Army Order 294 of 1890 orderly room sergeants were on the permanent staff of Militia regiments. In 1890 these appointments were abolished and it was decided to substitute orderly room clerks on the depot staff. These clerks are eligible for promotion to the post of orderly room sergeants of the depot when a vacancy occurs. They can also obtain promotion in the ordinary way in their service units.