HC Deb 06 March 1918 vol 103 cc1956-7
24. Major DAVIES

asked the Under-secretary of State for War whether he is prepared to abolish the distinctions between Regular and New Army officers now engaged by the Ministry of Pensions as regards their promotion and pay, or, if this course is impracticable, whether he will take steps to discharge all temporary officers, in order that they may have the same opportunity of promotion and increased pay as Civil servants?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Temporarily unfit officers attached to a Government Department normally draw Army pay and allowances, but if they fill special posts they may be given the civil pay of the post instead. This applies equally to all officers. Permanently unfit officers relinquish their commissions, whatever branch of the Service they belong to, and are dealt with as civilians. I understand that New Army officers permanently employed under the Ministry of Pensions relinquish their commissions.

Major DAVIES

Does this also apply to officers supplied to the Ministry of Munitions?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I imagine so.