§ 25. Mr. Liddallasked the Secretary of State for War what is the present maxi mum age limit for appointment as officers; what distinction is made in the case of those possessing previous military experience; and what course is adopted to offer appointments to those already serving rather than to those outside the Army and with no previous military experience?
§ Captain MargessonIn the case of men appointed to commissions from the ranks without being required to undergo further training in officer cadet training units, the upper age limits vary from 43 to 55 according to the branch of the Service No upper age limit has been prescribed for admission to officer cadet training units, but, other things being equal, preference is given to those under 30. In the case of those appointed to commissions from the Army Officers' Emergency Reserve, the upper age limit, unless the candidate has very special qualifications, is 55, and, except for technical corps where special qualifications are required, previous military service is required. As regards the last part of the Question, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to my hon. Friend the Member for West Sal-ford (Mr. Emery) on Wednesday last, of which I am sending him a copy.