§ 27. Commander BELLAIRSasked how many officers of the rank of brigadier-general, colonel, or below have been given acting or substantive rank in the grades of major-general, lieutenant-general, and general outside the method of promotion by seniority during the War; and whether the Army Council are satisfied that the departure from the rule of seniority has greatly conduced to the efficiency of our Armies in the field?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe information asked for in the first part of my hon. and gallant Friend's question is not readily available, and its preparation would involve an undue amount of time and labour. As regards the last part of the question, the Army Council is satisfied that the system of promotion by selection to the ranks of major-general, lieutenant-general, and general referred to is essential to the efficiency of the Army.
§ Commander BELLAIRSMay I assume from my right hon. Friend's answer, that the number is very considerable?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI think my hon. and gallant Friend may assume that.