SIR HOWARD VINCENTTo ask the Secretary of State for War if he 957 will state how many vacancies it is estimated will occur among the Officers, the non-commissioned officers, and men of the regular Army during the next three months; what steps are being taken to retain in the Army those returning from South Africa on the conclusion of their engagement for the war; and will their field service be allowed to count towards pensions.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Brodrick.) I am afraid it is impossible to estimate the possible vacancies at present with any degree of accuracy. I have thought it right, in view of the possible difficulty in obtaining employment when so large a number of men are being discharged, to allow reservists who desire to do so to remain with the colours, and it remains to be seen how large a number may decide to avail themselves of this permission. The last part of the Question is not understood; field service reckons like other service towards pension.