§ 23. Lieutenant-Colonel DALRYMPLE WHITEasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in cases where men have held acting rank as non-commissioned officers or warrant officers for a period of six months during the War and have been compelled to relinquish that rank for no misconduct or want of efficiency on their part, they may be authorised to retain the title of their higher rank on demobilisation?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIn the case of a soldier discharged subsequent to the 3rd February, 1919, the highest rank he has held continuously for six months is shown on his discharge certificate, provided he has not been reverted to lower rank on account of misconduct or inefficiency. The question of making this procedure apply retrospectively to discharges prior to 3rd February is receiving consideration.
§ 24. Lieutenant-Colonel WHITEasked the Secretary of State for War whether there is a considerable number of men who have held rank as non-commissioned officers or as warrant officers, class 2, for a considerable period during the War who were not 1893 informed by their commanding officers that the rank was an acting one only; and whether, in cases where it appears that the non-announcement of their promotion in regimental orders, part 2, may be due to a clerical error, he will authorise the reopening and consideration of such cases?
Captain GUESTIf my hon. and gallant Friend will forward particulars of the cases in question to the War Office, they will be investigated and considered on their merits.