HC Deb 13 July 1943 vol 391 c11
26. Sir Irving Albery

asked the Secretary of State for War what grounds there are for barring promotion to commissioned rank in the Pioneer Corps and Royal Engineers, Dock Group, to any man over 40 years of age, provided he is in other respects a suitable candidate?

Sir J. Grigg

The normal age limits for candidates for commissions generally are 18 to 40 years. Candidates over 40 years of age are, however, considered for commissioned rank if they have technical or special qualifications for a particular arm.

Sir I. Albery

Are we to understand that any suitable man over 40 in either of the Corps mentioned in the Question is debarred from getting a commission unless he has special technical qualities?

Sir J. Grigg

My answer was intended to convey the exact opposite, that the general rule for the Army is 18 to 40 years, but that exceptions are admitted much more readily in the particular arm which the hon. Member has mentioned.

Captain Gammans

What special qualifications are required for the Pioneer Corps?

Sir J. Grigg

The hon. and gallant Member had better put that Question down.