HC Deb 24 July 1956 vol 557 c182
5. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Secretary of State for War how many of the 536 officers of the rank of brigadier and upwards are in diplomatic posts; how many are on Army duties overseas; how many are on Army duties at home stations; and how many are otherwise employed.

Mr. Head

Four of these officers have retired, three are military attachés at embassies abroad, 333 are on Army duties at home, and 165 are serving overseas. Thirty-one are on courses, sick or temporarily unemployed.

Mr. Hynd

As this seems a rather large number of high-ranking officers for a shrinking Army, will the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to see that it is kept in proportion to the number of other ranks?

Mr. Head

Of course, the number will shrink as the Army shrinks. The proportion is about 0.1 per cent. of the Army as a whole.

Mr. Simmons

How many of those brigadiers are Members of this House?

Mr. Head

None.