§ 78. Major Wyattasked the Secretary of State for War how many new officers have been commissioned in the six months since VE-Day after attending O.C.T.U.s and without attending O.C.T.U.s, respectively; and how many new officers were commissioned in both categories in the six months immediately preceding VE-Day.
§ Mr. LawsonIn the six months ended 3rst October, 7,221 commissions were granted, made up of 4,020 from O.C.T.U.s, 1,742 direct from the ranks, and 1,459 from civil life. In the preceding six months the corresponding figures were 8,780, 6,421, 1,373 and 986. Officers commissioned direct from civil life are normally qualified professional men or specialists, for example, doctors, chaplains and civil affairs officers.
§ Major WyattCould the right hon. Gentleman explain why there has been a big drop in commissioning officers since VE-Day in view of the fact that there has been delay in the release of groups 21 and 24?
§ Mr. LawsonNo, I could not say without notice.