§ 66. Lieut.-Commander WEDGWOODasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any steps can be taken to draft into the New Armies still in this country officers and men who have been wounded and who may desire to transfer either in their own rank or in a higher grade according to length of service at the front?
§ Mr. TENNANTThis matter must, of course, be regulated primarily by the necessities of the Service rather than according to the desires for transfer of individuals. Officers and men who have been wounded and have recovered are normally sent out again to their unit as soon as they are fit, but what my hon. and gallant Friend suggests is also done in many cases where it is considered battalions of the New Armies will benefit from an infusion of soldiers who have already seen service at the front.
§ Lieut.-Commander WEDGWOODIs it not always the case that battalions of the New Army will benefit from the infusion of soldiers from the front?
§ Mr. TENNANTI should think, as a general proposition, that is true. It is done wherever it is possible.