§ 17. Captain GILMOURasked whether seven officers of the 4th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders have resigned their commissions; if so, whether their action is due to the appointment of an officer on the retired list of the Highland Light Infantry to command; and if he will state whether the second in command possessed the necessary certificates of tactical fitness to qualify him to command?
§ Colonel SEELYThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. There is no information to show that the cause was that suggested in the second part. The answer to the third part is in the affirmative.
§ Captain GILMOURIs it not rather a serious position that these officers have resigned, and will the right hon. Gentleman make further inquiries?
§ Colonel SEELYCertainly. I have been making inquiries, and the reason cannot be entirely as suggested in the question. One of the officers concerned has been holding a Colonial appointment.
§ Viscount CASTLEREAGHIs it not the fact that three of the officers were on the retired list?
§ Colonel SEELYI do not like to say off-hand. These appointments are made on the recommendation of the General Commanding-in-Chief, who is generally acquainted with all the circumstances.