§ Mr. O'GRADYasked whether the plan suggested by Lord Kitchener to the Australian Commonwealth of granting commissions for military efficiency instead of by means of social influence has been under consideration by the War Office, with a view of applying the plan to the British Army generally; and, if so, whether an opinion has been expressed that the West Point system is the best for training aspirants for such commissions?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe hon. Member is incorrect in his suggestion that social influence controls the granting of commissions in the British Army. As I understand it, nomination is an essential feature of the West Point system, whereas entrance to the British Army is in the main by open examination.
§ Viscount CASTLEREAGHMay I ask whether it is not the fact that when a soldier in the ranks wishes to attain commissioned rank, he is assisted to do so by the military authorities?
§ Mr. HALDANEWe encourage it in every way, but it is not everybody who will take a commission in the Regular Army.
§ Mr. JOHN WARDCan the right hon. Gentleman inform us in what way they encourage the ranker to go in for a commission?
§ Mr. HALDANEWhenever anybody is recommended by his Commanding Officer for a Commission every encouragement is given to him at headquarters to get it.