HC Deb 28 June 1910 vol 18 cc819-20
Captain FABER

asked the Secretary of State for War if he would state over what period of time the command of the newly appointed officer to the Mediterranean Command was likely to extend?

The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Haldane)

The prescribed term of a Staff appointment is four years, and so far as can be foreseen there is no reason to suppose this rule will be departed from in the case of the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Mediterranean and Inspector-General of the Oversea Forces.

Mr. W. PEEL

May I take it that the office will probably be held for a longer period than it was held by the late holder?

Mr. HALDANE

A four years appointment is usual.

Captain FABER

When is the new general likely to take up his command, and where will he reside?

Mr. HALDANE

I think it is very likely it will be 1st August, but the date is not definitely settled yet. As. regards his headquarters, he will have the Palace at Malta, but for a certain time in the year, of course, he will have a good deal of work to do in London.