§ 17. Sir S. HOAREasked the Secretary of State for War what was the number of staff officers of the instructional staff at the staff college, and the staff grading of each on 1st May, 1914, and on 1st May, 1921; and, if there is any rise in the numbers on a higher grading with consequent increase of cost on the latter date as compared with the former date, what is the reason for such rise and increase?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSAs the reply to the first part of the question is somewhat long, I will, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT. The figures show an increase in the number of higher gradings. This is due to the fact that, as the whole of the students for the last three courses have been specially selected officers who have held high rank in the field, both in command and on the staff, the courses have been of an advanced nature and necessitated instructors whose position and seniority require higher gradings than those of the previous staff. The present establishment is temporary, and a reduction in the numbers and in the gradings of the staff is at present under consideration, as the future courses will probably be composed of more junior officers.
§ Sir S. HOAREDoes the answer include the comparative cost for 1914 and 1921?
§ Sir L. WORTHINGTON-EVANSI do not think that was asked in the question. I have given the numbers and the grading at both periods.
§ The following is the reply:
§ The number and gradings of staff officers of the instructional staff at the Staff College on 1st May, 1914, were as follows:—
- 1 Commandant.
- 2 General Staff Officers (First Grade).
- 10 General Staff Officers (Second Grade).
- 2 Deputy Adjutant and Quarter Master Generals.
§ The corresponding figures for the 1st May, 1921, are as follows:—
- 1 Commandant.
- 4 Colonels on the Staff.
- 10 General Staff Officers (First Grade).
- 2 Assistant Adjutant Generals.
- 2 Assistant Quarter Master Generals.