HC Deb 23 January 1918 vol 101 c971
31. Colonel YATE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether colonels commanding columns in the late operations in East Africa have been or are to be given the rank of brigadier-general while they were so employed?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I do not know precisely what columns my hon. and gallant Friend refers to in his question, but I understand that the main portions into which the force is divided are commanded by brigadiers-general.

Colonel YATE

If a colonel was commanding an independent column equivalent to a brigade, is it not fair that he should be given the temporary rank of brigadier-general while doing so?

Mr. MACPHERSON

That is a question entirely within the discretion of the local General Officer Commanding-in-Chief.