§ MR. MASSEY-MAINWARING () Finsbery, CentralTo ask the Secretary of State for War whether officers promoted during the South African war were exempted from passing the examination for promotion; and, if so, whether officers promoted to brevet rank, and who performed the duties of Field Officers in South Africa, may be exempted in like manner.
(Answered by Mr. Secretary Brodrick.) Officers serving in South Africa have been held to be exempt from examination for promotion up to 30th November, 1902; this rule applies to substantive rank only. They will be considered eligible for selection for provisional promotion up to 31st May, 1903, being required to pass examination at the earliest opportunity. Officers with brevet rank come under Article 21A of the Pay Warrant, under which an officer may be exempted from examination on the recommendation of the Conmmander-inChief, if he has been promoted for distinguished service or shows marked ability and gallantry in the field. Officers who produce certificates that they have satisfactorily commanded a mobile force of not less than 500 men for three months in the face of the enemy between 11th October, 1899, and 31st May, 1902 will be exempted from examination for higher rank.