§ Mr. KELLAWAYasked whether the shortage of officers in the Army can be removed by increasing the opportunities open to suitable men of obtaining commissions from the ranks?
§ Mr. HALDANENo difficulties are placed in the way of soldiers desirous of obtaining commissions from the ranks. A candidate only requires the qualifications laid down in the Royal Warrant for Pay, etc., and the recommendation of his Commanding Officer and the General Officer Commanding.
§ Mr. KELLAWAYWill the right hon. Gentleman state how many commissions have been given to men of the ranks who previously failed to obtain commission by examination?
§ Mr. HALDANEThe commissions from the ranks are very few indeed.