HC Deb 29 September 1942 vol 383 cc663-4
42. Mr. Hutchinson

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he intends to make any change in the present system of granting acting and temporary rank in the Army?

71. Sir D. Hacking

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware of the almost universal dissatisfaction amongst officers and other ranks in the Army in respect of the granting of acting and temporary ranks; and whether, in order to put an end to the uncertainty and hardship inseparable from the present system, he will abolish the temporary rank of officers and reduce the length of qualifying periods for substantive ranks of officers and non-commissioned officers?

Sir J. Grigg

I am at present considering the possibility of making certain amendments in the conditions governing war-time promotions with the object of giving to officers somewhat greater security against loss of rank through no fault of their own.

Mr. Hutchinson

While thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, may I ask whether it would be possible for him to make a statement on this matter before very long?

Sir J. Grigg

All I can say about that is that I hope so, but, of course, other Departments are concerned in it and a certain amount of inter-departmental discussion is required.

Sir R. Ross

Will the contemplated regulations be made restrospective?

Sir J. Grigg

I think we had better wait and see what the regulations are in fact going to be.

Captain Crowder

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind the strong feeling in this House and in the Army that some- thing should be done about this matter as quickly as possible?