§ 61. Mr. STANTONasked the Secretary of State for War if his Department will make further inquiries into the discontent among young fighting lieutenants at the front who declare that they are not having the chances of promotion they are entitled to; and if he will see that promotion in future shall depend upon fitness and service and not upon friendly, family, or other influence?
§ Mr. FORSTERProfessional fitness is the sole consideration in deciding questions of promotion. The insinuation contained in the last part of the question is wholly unwarranted.
§ Mr. STANTONMay I give you proof to substantiate my charges?
§ Mr. KEATINGMove the Adjournment.
§ Mr. PRINGLEWhy not have an inquiry?
§ Mr. STANTONYes; I challenge inquiry into the truth.
§ Mr. HOGGEApart from what is said in the question, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a considerable amount of discontent among men serving at the front on account of men sent from this country who obtained promotion in this country and who naturally rank over the men who have been fighting at the front. That is really a point of importance?
§ Mr. FORSTERYes; I am aware of that, and I dealt with that point in a question quite recently. That is a very different point from that made by the hon. Member in his question.
§ Mr. STANTONI notice that my question has been cut down and does not explain the matter clearly to the House.