§ Mr. KELLAWAYasked how many combatant commissions were issued during the five years 1885–9 in the Cavalry; how many of these were commissions from the ranks; and what are the corresponding figures for the years 1906–10?
§ Colonel SEELYThe figures are as follows:—
Total Cavalry Commissions. From ranks. 1885 to 1889 … 377 29 1906 to 1910 … 298 Nil
§ Mr. KELLAWAYasked how many combatant commissions were issued during the five years 1885–9; how many of these were commissions from the ranks; and how these figures compare with the commissions issued during the five years 1906–10?
§ Colonel SEELYThe figures are as follows:—
Total Combatant Commissions. From ranks. 1885 to 89 … 3,357 159 1906 to 10 … 3,049 64
§ Mr. KELLAWAYasked whether, in view of the steady diminution in the number of commissions from the ranks, the Government have under consideration any 1126 measures likely to increase the opportunities open to men in the ranks to obtain commissions?
§ Colonel SEELYThis question was thoroughly discussed during the Debate on Army Estimates on 22nd March, and a full statement on the subject was made by the Secretary of State. To that statement I have nothing at present to add.