§ 31. Mr. Granvilleasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider an improvement in the status of Army emergency chaplains, enabling them to achieve the substantive rank, pay and allowances of captain, with the accompanying opportunities of promotion to higher rank?
§ Sir J. GriggThe status of emergency chaplains in the Army on being commissioned is equal to that of captain, and they receive the allowances of that rank. Their subsequent promotion depends on selection for vacancies in the next higher class. Their pay on first being commissioned is 15s. 4d. a day. I am not aware that there are grounds for an increase.
§ Mr. GranvilleIn view of the great work being done by Army padres, would the Minister consider the whole status of Army chaplains, particularly as regards the question of promotion?
§ Sir J. GriggFar be it from me to belittle the grand work being done by Army chaplains, but I think the hon. Gentleman should bear in mind that they start their Army life with the status of captain. They do not have to come in as second lieutenants.