§ 13. Sir HENRY CRAIKasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is prepared to appoint a Commission or Committee to examine the question of the rates of pay to officers in the Army; how far these rates affect recruitment; and 1157 whether they are adequate to attract the most suitable candidates, having regard to the remuneration in other professions and to the change of conditions since any substantial addition has been made to the long-prevailing rates?
§ Colonel SEELYAs I have already informed the House, the rates of pay of officers in the Army have been and are now receiving my earnest consideration, and I do not think that at present the proposed Commission or Committee would materially facilitate progress in the direction mentioned.
§ Sir H. CRAIKWould not the appointment of such a Commission or Committee bring home to the mind of this House the facts of the case, and call attention to a very great grievance?
§ Mr. JOHN WARDWill the pay of the soldiers be taken into consideration at the same time whenever the pay of the officers is taken into consideration?
§ Sir H. CRAIKIt has been increased over and over again.
§ Mr. HARRY LAWSONWill the right hon. Gentleman deal with the matter in introducing the Army Estimates in the coming 'Session?
§ Colonel SEELYAt the present time I do not think such a Commission as is referred to is opportune. With regard to my hon. Friend's question, I would say we will certainly bear in mind the desirability of making it possible for the poor man to rise from the ranks in considering this question. In reply to the last question, I do not think I shall be able to make any full statement on the Army Estimates.