HC Deb 19 April 1917 vol 92 cc1859-60W
Mr. STANTON

asked the Under Secretary of State for War if his attention has been called to the unfairness of sending young Army captains out to the front who have had no experience whatever of trench warfare to be placed over the heads of fighting sub-lieutenants; and if he will see that such positions and promotions are filled by the young lieutenants who have done the fighting, and who should get the reward and encouragement due to them?

Mr. MACPHERSON

It is very seldom that the circumstances mentioned by my hon. Friend occur, though occasionally they are unavoidable. In the large majority of cases the rank of captain given at home is temporary and lapses on the holder going abroad.

Major HUNT

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the Committee appointed to consider the question of the promotion of officers of field rank in British Infantry battalions is likely to report soon in view of the urgency of the matter?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I presume that my hon. and gallant Friend refers to the Committee of which my right hon. Friend the Member for Dundee is Chairman. I understand that the Committee is now considering its Report.

Major HUNT

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether he can consider the advisability of promoting a greater proportion of regimental officers of Regular battalions to higher commands in view of the fact that these officers have special knowledge of the present conditions of warfare, and have in many cases a distinguished record as fighting officers?

Mr. MACPHERSON

A very large number of regimental officers are commanding brigades and several are commanding divisions.