14. Colonel Dowerasked the Secretary of State for War if it is proposed that Territorial adjutants shall receive the same rate of pay as Regular officers who are adjutants of Territorial units.
§ Mr. ShinwellIt is not proposed to revise the rate of pay of non-Regular Territorial Army adjutants. The consolidated rate does not compare unfavourably with the pay of Regular officers, when it is remembered that the officers concerned have much lesser liabilities. They serve in a fixed position, generally near their homes, and are not liable to be moved without their consent, whereas the Regular officer is liable to serve in any part of the world.
Colonel DowerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that their functions as adjutants of Territorial regiments are the same and their work is very often even heavier? In view of the fact that we want to encourage Territorials to come forward wherever possible until they can be replaced by Regular officers, will the right hon. Gentleman see whether this grievance can be removed?
§ Mr. ShinwellSo far as I know, there is no actual grievance. There is a difference in the liabilities incurred, and on the whole we think that the rates of pay and emoluments are favourable.
§ Sir Ralph GlynIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it has been represented to the War Office on several occasions that we shall not be able to attract sufficient officers to these posts unless they are given equal pay for equal work?
§ Mr. ShinwellAs it happens, we are able to attract sufficient officers.