HC Deb 05 November 1919 vol 120 cc1500-1
80. Brigadier-General COCKERILL

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the organisation of the general Staff and of the War Office, adopted in 1904 on the recommendation of the War Office (Reconstitution) Committee, proved in practice to be in some respects irresponsive to the needs of modern war; and whether he will consider the advisability of appointing a Committee to take evidence and recommend modifications of the existing War Office system?

Mr. FORSTER

Considering the gigantic task which fell upon the general Staff so soon after its formation, the manner in which its organisation and the organisation of the War Office has dealt with the expansion of the Army and its use in so many theatres of war may certainly be considered remarkably satisfactory. The answer to the hon. and gallant Member's question is, therefore, in the negative.