§ 9. Colonel ASHLEYasked the Secretary of State for War whether, on the conclusion of Peace, he would be prepared to consider applications for restoration of rank without pay or allowances from war rant and non-commissioned officers who. having rendered excellent service during the War, find themselves for various causes discharged in a lower rank than that held on mobilisation or attained, during service, provided that such reduction was not in any way due to misconduct?
Captain GUEST (Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury)I can only refer my hon. and gallant Friend to Army Order 82 of 1919, a copy of which I will send him, as it is too long to read out in the House. I regret it is not possible to alter these Regulations.
§ Colonel ASHLEYIs not the War Office aware that many excellent non-commissioned officers for purely technical offences have lost their rank, and though that was quite right in war-time, surely those excellent men should now be restored to the rank they previously held?
Captain GUESTThe whole subject is-being most carefully reviewed at the moment and it is not possible to say at present if any alteration will be made.
§ Colonel ASHLEYI will put a question next week.