§ 12. Mr. O'GRADYasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that Indians acting as assistant surgeons (military) while on service in India are paid an allowance of Rs. 30 and Rs. 50 per month, and that in the present War these men at the front are deprived of this allowance; and, if so, will steps be taken in order that the allowance named shall be paid to Indians acting as assistant surgeons during the War?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Charles Roberts)I presume that the hon. Member refers to the general field allowance of Rs. 30 a month, and the special charge allowances of varying rates granted for special duties. All military assistant surgeons at the front receive the former allowance and all those who are eligible receive the latter. A few claims in respect of special allowances are being held over pending verification.
§ 13. Mr. O'GRADYasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he is aware that there are a number of Indians acting as assistant surgeons at the front and that these officers have a large and continuous military medical experience, including that of the present War; and whether, in view of these facts and the consequent shortage of medical men who must obtain their degrees in Great Britain before they can obtain the rank of commissioned officer, steps will be taken to promote to commissioned rank the assistant surgeons who have obtained certificates through examinations in India?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSVacancies occurring at the present time in the commissioned-ranks of the Indian Medical Service are being made good by the grant of temporary commissions to medical men, Indians and others, having a professional qualification that is registrable in the United Kingdom. It is not considered desirable or necessary to lower the standard of admission.