HC Deb 27 February 1940 vol 357 c1889
68. Mr. J. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for War the number of non-commissioned officers promoted to the rank of commissioned officers since September, 1939; what number have so been promoted from the Regular Army; and the total from the Territorial units during this period?

Mr. Stanley

I regret that the information asked for is not available.

Mr. Henderson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the discrimination exercised in regard to these promotions is arousing deep resentment among non-commissioned officers of the Regular Army and that, despite the boast of its democratisation, the Army is as full of the old school tie as ever?

Mr. Stanley

I am not aware that this is causing resentment, and the hon. Gentleman's statement is quite untrue. [Hon. Members: "Oh!"] I apologise—is wholly inaccurate. The pledge given by my predecessor is being fully carried out.

Mr. Davidson

What does the right hon. Gentleman mean by "fully"?

Mr. Stanley

Wholly.