§ COLONEL BROOKFIELD (Sussex, Rye)To ask the Secretary of State for War whether he can state the principle upon which clerical employment at the War Office is given to applicants for such employment; and with whom the duty of selecting candidates rests.
(Answered by Hr. Secretary Brodrick.) My hon. and gallant friend presumably refers to the employment of officers and ex-soldiers in the War Office. The selection of officers depends on their qualifications, combined with any special claims, and is therefore by merit. The candidate is recommended by the Commander-in-Chief to the Secretary of State for approval. The selection of ex-soldiers depends on their qualifications, 745 preference being as far as possible given to men who have suffered in health from wounds, or other Meets of active service, provided that they have the requisite clerical experience.