63. Mr. David Adamsasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the policy with regard to the employment of elderly senior staff officers is being carried out uniformly?
§ Mr. SandysIn view of the marked shortage of senior staff officers in the early stages of the war, it was necessary to reemploy a number of retired officers, and to retain others, who had passed the prescribed age-limits. With the progress of the war the number of officers possessing the necessary staff training and experience has steadily increased. This has made it possible periodically to review the list of over-aged officers and to replace many of them with somewhat younger and fitter men. In deciding whether any such officer shall be retired his individual qualifications and experience are carefully considered.
Mr. AdamsIs the Minister aware that the continued employment of senior staff officers is debarring younger and more active officers from engagement?
§ Mr. SandysThat is not the fact.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallDoes this also apply to the Home Guard, and is the hon. Gentleman aware that a certain number of officers in the Home Guard have been retired at 65 and that others have been left? Why should there be this distinction?
§ Mr. SandysThat is a different question. Perhaps the hon. Member will put it down.