§ 27. Mr. John Dugdaleasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has given further consideration to the position of acting unpaid lance-corporals; and whether he has any statement to make?
§ Sir J. GriggWar establishments are calculated to provide a reasonable and sufficient number of non-commissioned officers for the needs of units. Local commanders have discretion to sanction the appointment of a limited number of unpaid lance-corporals in excess of the requirements as fixed by establishments. They provide a good opportunity to enable promising soldiers to develop and prove their capacity for leadership and I do not consider that these discretionary powers should be withdrawn.
§ Mr. DugdaleIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is great dissatisfaction among men who are called upon to do duty for which they are not adequately paid?
§ Sir J. GriggNo, Sir, I am not aware of any such thing.
§ Mr. LawsonWill the right hon. Gentleman have another look at this matter; and is he aware that the unpaid lance-corporal usually gets it in the neck every time and receives no pay?
§ Sir J. GriggOn the contrary, the unpaid lance-corporal gets the opportunity of qualifying for promotion.
§ Mr. DugdaleIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply of the right hon. Gentleman, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.
§ Mr. GallacherThey are in the same category as the P.P.Ss.