§ 82. Colonel YATEasked the Secretary of State for India how promotions to the rank of lieutenant, captain, and major, in the Indian Army Reserve of officers, are regulated; and whether the claims of officers who were already serving in the Indian Army Reserve of officers before the outbreak of the War have been duly considered in the grant of these promotions?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for INDIA (Mr. Chamberlain)The ordinary Indian Army rule, as to promotion by length of service, is applicable generally to Indian Army Reserve officers, with some exceptions in respect of officers serving in the Supply and Transport and Veterinary 2109 Corps, or holding other appointments of special importance and responsibility. The Government of India may, in particular cases, on the recommendation of the Commander-in-Chief, grant accelerated promotion. I have no reason to suppose that the claims of officers who were serving in the Reserve on the outbreak of war have not been duly considered.
§ Colonel YATEWill the right hon. Gentleman ask the Government of India to inquire into this matter?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINNo, Sir, not until I have information to show that there is, at any rate, a primâ facie ground for doing so. If my hon. and gallant Friend has evidence of such a ground, I shall be very glad to consider it, but I should not feel it proper to trouble the Government of India with an inquiry without feeling myself assured that there was a primâ facie ground for doing so.
§ Colonel YATEMay I send the right hon. Gentleman some particulars?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINYes, certainly. I am always glad to receive particulars from my hon. and gallant Friend.