HC Deb 03 May 1920 vol 128 c1712
93. Mr. AUBREY HERBERT

asked the Secretary of State for War and Air what is the number of commissions that is being given to officers who have taken part actively in the War; what proportion this number bears to the commissions given to cadets who did not have the chance of serving; and how many officers who have served during the War and desire to retain their commissions have been refused?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the WAR OFFICE (Sir A. Williamson)

I regret that it is not yet possible to say how many permanent commissions in the Regular Army will be given to officers who served in the late War, and I can at present add nothing to the previous replies which have been given on the subject. The consideration of the whole question, which is receiving the close attention of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State, is approaching finality, and he proposes to make a statement as soon as possible.

Mr. BILLING

Can the right hon. Gentleman make a statement before these commissions are granted, so as to give the House an opportunity of expressing their approval or otherwise as to the number of commissions given to officers who served in the War?

Sir A. WILLIAMSON

I am not able to answer that. It is a question for the Secretary of State.