§ 41. Colonel Greenwellasked the Secretary of State for War how many officers, serving on Territorial commissions, had been appointed to the rank of brigadier between 1st January, 1939, and 3rd September, 1939; how many of these officers are still serving in this rank; and how many of them have since been promoted to higher rank?
§ Sir J. GriggThe answer to the first part of the Question is 27, to the second part 6, and to the third part 2.
§ Colonel GreenwellDoes the right hon. Gentleman not consider that this very low number is rather discouraging to Territorial officers, and is something of a reflection on their ability?
§ Sir J. GriggI do not think so. I know that the view expressed by my hon. and gallant Friend is one which is frequently held, and it is one to which I have given a good deal of attention. I think it is largely a question of age, and the demands of modern warfare on officers of the rank of brigadier are very exacting.