§ 31. Lieut. - Colonel ARCHER-SHEEasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that Captain Manley Angell James, V.C, M.C., is a candidate for a commission in the Regular Army, and that this officer is only 23 years of age and was three times wounded; whether, in view of this officer's exceptional service, a vacancy may be made for him, and one vacancy less allotted in the next Sandhurst examination; whether he is aware that another officer, 22 years of age, who joined the Army as a private at 17 years of age, won a commission and a V.C, is also desirous of obtaining a Regular commission; and whether similar arrangements can be made in his case?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLEleven officers, including Captain James, who have earned the Victoria Cross, have been recommended for permanent Regular commissions. It would be invidious to single out one particular officer for treatment as proposed, but my hon. and gallant Friend may rest 229 assured that the fullest consideration will be given to the war services generally of each candidate who is recommended, and in particular to those who have won the Victoria Cross. I regret I cannot adopt the suggestion contained in the second part of the question, the vacancies announced for the examination to be held this summer are intended to furnish officers in the autumn of 1922. As regards the last part of the question, unless the name of the officer is furnished it is not possible to say whether he has been recommended for a permanent Regular commission. As I stated on Tuesday last, I am doing my utmost to expedite a decision.