§ 17. Mr. Grettonasked the Secretary of State for War if he will issue instructions that in the event of a change in rank involving a reduction in pay, that such reduction shall not become operative before the man concerned is notified in Orders.
§ Sir J. GriggI assume that my hon. Friend has in mind other ranks absent from duty on account of sickness. The rule is that they drop acting rank on the first day of absence, but if they return within 21 days it may be restored retrospectively. To save unnecessary notifications in orders, the commanding officer is allowed to defer any notification until the man has been absent for 21 days. I am considering whether any change should be made in these rules.