HC Deb 18 April 1944 vol 399 c8
12. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give an assurance that adequate scope and opportunity is afforded to all serving officers with specialised knowledge and that unorthodoxy and initiative do not preclude the employment of officers from appointment to higher command.

The Secretary of State for War (Sir James Grigg)

I gladly give my hon. Friend the assurance for which he asks.

Mr. De la Bère

Can my right hon. Friend tell me whether there was not some considerable delay in recognising the brilliant technique of the late General Wingate? Is it not vitally necessary to give the fullest possible scope and opportunity to young serving officers? How many generals under 40 are there to-day?

Sir J. Grigg

The hon. Member had better put down a Question.