HL Deb 08 February 1956 vol 195 c802
LORD DERWENT

My Lords, I beg to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

[The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what officers of the Regular Army are not subject to frequent postings, and are not therefore covered by the phrase "who are subject to frequent postings" used with reference to educational allowances by the Minister of Defence in his statement on November 2, 1955]

LORD FAIRFAX OF CAMERON

My Lords, the only Regular officers ineligible are a comparatively small number in the United Kingdom serving under special arrangements exempting them from the normal liability to posting. All officers overseas, and all officers in the United Kingdom who are unlikely to remain in their present place of duty for more than four years, are regarded as subject to frequent postings.

LORD DERWENT

My Lords, I thank my noble friend for his reply, which seems to cover most officers. Can he say whether, if a doubtful case arises at any time, the benefit of the doubt will he given to the officer and not to the Treasury?

LORD FAIRFAX OF CAMERON Yes, my Lords.