HC Deb 12 November 1906 vol 164 cc1036-7
SIR GILBERT PARKER

On behalf of the hon. Member for the Stepney Division, I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether in view of the fact that Lieutenant J. S. D. Gage, late of the 5th Dragoon Guards, was compelled by the Army Council to resign his commission, he will say whether any reasons were given for the treatment meted out to him; whether his application for a full inquiry into his case was refused; and, if so, whether he will explain why an officer wearing four medals and eight clasps and after fifteen years' service has been deprived not only of his livelihood, but of his social status, without trial.

MR. HALDANE

This officer was called on to resign his commission in a letter from this Department dated 6th February last after a very careful inquiry into the circumstances of his case. He was informed at the same time that no reflection was made on his honour or character, but that the evidence afforded by the confidential reports, with which Lieutenant Gage was acquainted, showed that he was not adapted to the requirements of his profession. As he had been unable to profit by the opportunities extended to him, his retention in the service could not be sanctioned. It will, therefore, be seen that there could be no question of putting the officer on trial. I have satisfied myself that the course adopted in this case is a perfectly just one.

VISCOUNT TURNOUR

Had this officer an opportunity of appearing before the board which made the inquiry?

MR. HALDANE

The rule in the Army is that whenever confidential re ports are made, they are shown to the officers concerned. These reports have been coming in for years past, and the officer has known that to an extent he has been on his trial and must do his best to improve. The decision of the Army Council was given on the final report.