HC Deb 22 December 1915 vol 77 cc468-70
54. Captain WRIGHT

asked whether, in view of the ever-increasing importance of aerial warfare, both in attack and defence, he recognises the necessity of organizing Anti-Aircraft Artillery, either in conjunction with the Royal Flying Corps, or as a separate branch of the Royal Artillery with its own administration and promotion, so that there may be some definite organised body responsible for the provision of the necessary equipment and weapons and for training the men who are to use them?

Mr. TENNANT

The necessity referred to is fully recognised, but it is not desirable to make public any changes in organisation which may have taken place or others which it may be desirable to effect.

Mr. GOLDSTONE

May we have an assurance that changes are being made in the sense suggested in the question?

Mr. TENNANT

I would rather not give an assurance on that, but everything that is considered necessary is being done.

57. Captain WRIGHT

asked the Under-Secretary whether he is aware that promotion up to the rank of sergeant in the Anti-Aircraft Artillery, Royal Artillery, is by the officers commanding sections or batteries, but above that rank is by various authorities differing in respect of noncommissioned officers from the Royal Horse Artillery, the Royal Field Artillery, and the Royal Garrison Artillery, but agreeing in taking from anti-aircraft work back to the other branches of the Royal Artillery those non-commissioned officers who are the most experienced and skilful in anti-aircraft work; and whether he will consider some other system of promotion whereby this loss to Anti-Aircraft Artillery work can be remedied?

Mr. TENNANT

The Commanders-in-Chief of the Armies in the field have not made any suggestion that the present system of promotion is unsatisfactory, and as they are satisfied and are the responsible authorities, it is proposed to make no alteration.

Captain WRIGHT

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman if he recognises that if the system is such as is stated in the question, that the Anti-Aircraft Artillery are bound to suffer?

Mr. TENNANT

The Anti-Aircraft Artillery is bound to suffer if that happens.

Captain WRIGHT

Through losing their most efficient non-commissioned officers?

Mr. TENNANT

I do not think that is the case. However, I will have it looked into.