HC Deb 21 February 1911 vol 21 cc1713-4
Mr. KELLAWAY

asked what proportion the 264 commissions from the ranks during the past five years bears to the total number of commissions during that period?

Mr. HALDANE

There were 3,249 commissions granted during the last five years—giving a proportion of about one in twelve for commissions from the ranks.

Mr. WATT

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the percentage has risen since 1906, when he came into office?

Mr. HALDANE

I cannot say; I think it is very much about the same.

Viscount CASTLEREAGH

Has there not been an outcry in the Army as to there not being sufficient commissions from the ranks?

Mr. HALDANE

No, there has been absolutely no outcry. The difficulty is to get men who are qualified to take commissions.

Mr. JOHN WARD

Would not a man be liable to court-martial if he made any complaint that he was not getting proper promotion?

Mr. HALDANE

Not in the least. If he is properly recommended his name is put forward.

Mr. JOHN WARD

But if he complains of neglect is he not liable to court-martial?

Mr. HALDANE

No, not in the least.

Mr. JOHN WARD

Will the right hon. Gentleman say who recommends him?

Mr. HALDANE

He is recommended by his Commanding Officer. How could he be recommended otherwise?