HC Deb 14 May 1941 vol 371 c1198
26. Commander Bower

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Board will seek powers to promote commanders and lieutenant-commanders on the active list of the Royal Navy who have been passed over for promotion in time of peace but have subsequently proved their fitness for higher rank by distinquished war service?

Sir V. Warrender

The change which my hon. and gallant Friend proposes is not required. Officers who in peace-time have been passed over are not debarred from subsequent promotion.

Commander Bower

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in actual practice, these promotions are taking place? I have been informed that they are not.

Sir V. Warrender

Yes, Sir. There have been one or two lieutenant-commanders promoted to the rank of commander, which would come within the hon. Gentleman's Question.