HC Deb 17 June 1918 vol 107 cc36-7
72. Mr. ALDEN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether Sir William Babtie has been appointed medical adviser to the Adjutant-General; and, if so, whether, having regard to the findings of the Mesopotamia Commission, he will consider the advisability of placing some other medical man in this position?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Sir William Babtie, V.C., has not been appointed medical adviser to the Adjutant-General. At present he is Inspector of Medical Services for such duties as he may from time to time be directed to carry out. He is an officer of wide experience, and has an intimate knowledge of everything connected with the medical services of the Army. On account of the reference to Sir William Babtie in connection with the inquiry of the Mesopotamia Commission, his case was referred to the Army Council, who, after full consideration of all the facts, decided that the explanation he had been called upon to offer was satisfactory in all respects, and that his services should not be lost to the Army.

Sir H. CRAIK

Is it not the case that the findings of the Mesopotamia Commission threw no personal aspersion whatever on Sir William Babtie?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Not only is that so, but they recommended in so many words that he should be re-employed.