§ 74. Major MORRISON-BELLasked the Secretary for War how many officers who are non-Regulars are now employed on the War Office Staff; and whether, in the interests of public economy, he will see his way to have all such officers demobilised at an early date, and their places filled by Regular officers where it is not possible to abolish the appointments altogether?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe figures required in the first part of my hon. Friend's question arc not readily available, but the number of temporary officers employed in the War Office is constantly decreasing. The substitution of Regular for temporary officers would not necessarily achieve the purpose which my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind, as officers holding such appointments are supernumerary to regimental establishments. As regards the abolition of the appointments, I can assure him that the possibility of reducing the establishment is constantly before the Army Council.