§ 40. Captain John Dugdaleasked the Secretary of State for War when he expects to be in a position to make a statement on the subject of allowances for married officers under the age of 30?
§ Mr. LawI am afraid I can give no definite date, but the review of these allowances now in progress will be expedited as much as possible.
§ Captain DugdaleIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the distinction made between officers over 30 and under 30 is due to the fact that in the Regular Army officers were discouraged from marrying at an early age, and in view of the fact that the great majority of the present Army is composed of temporary soldiers, many of whom married before they entered the Army, will he see whether some alteration cannot be made?
§ Mr. LawYes, Sir, I am aware of the circumstances which gave rise to this distinction, but I can only assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the matter is under 1847 consideration. It does not affect the War Office only. We will get a decision as quickly as possible.