HC Deb 27 April 1920 vol 128 cc1015-6
20. Colonel NEWMAN

asked the Secretary of State for War and Air whether, under the reorganisation scheme of the Territorial Force, he can give the number of brigadier-generals and brigade-majors who will be appointed, together with their respective rates of pay and allowances, and whether any of these officers have been already appointed?

Mr. CHURCHILL

There are no Brigadier-generals in the Territorial Army. Territorial infantry brigades, of which there are 42, will each be commanded by a colonel, who will draw consolidated pay of £1,000 per annum—his sum is inclusive of all allowances, except field and travelling allowance, and no free issues in kind are made.

Forty-two brigade majors will be appointed.

Brigade majors who are Regular officers will receive, if married, pay and allowances amounting to £832 per annum; if unmarried, £790 per annum.

Territorial Force brigade majors will draw 33s. per day and allowances.

Commanders have been appointed for 36 infantry brigades. A few of these who are still serving abroad have not yet assumed duty, but will do so shortly. Brigade majors have been appointed for 41 infantry brigades. The remaining appointments will be made in the course of the next few days.

Colonel NEWMAN

What will these general officers have to do?

Mr. CHURCHILL

They will be very fully occupied with the general work of training their men and seeing that the drills are carried out throughout the year according to the prescribed routine, and generally maintaining the efficiency of the Territorial Force.

Major GLYN

When these officers were appointed were any qualifications with war service insisted upon?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Yes, Sir; these officers were carefully selected by the Committee of Selection at the War Office and they comprise among them an extra-ordinary gathering of officers of the highest reputation in the field.

Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

Has the right hon. Gentleman yet arrived at any definite scheme dealing with the Territorial Force, seeing that the people of the country are anxious to take part in it, but lack information?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Yes, Sir; I have lately made several announcements. I regret that none of them have yet reached the ears of my hon. and gallant Friend.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Were the political views of the officers inquired into?