§ Major Markhamasked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that there is a growing feeling among officers that undue preference is given to Regular officers in all appointments, both to staff courses and to staff appointments and that the percentage of Regular officers given vacancies at the staff college and in higher positions on the staff bears this out; and whether he will take steps to see that in filling vacancies adequate consideration is given to the claims of Territorial and other non-Regular officers?
§ Mr. A. HendersonWhen officers are being considered for staff appointments1964W or for attendance at Staff College courses no distinction whatever is made between them on the basis of the commissions they hold. The experience, training and efficiency of the officers are the factors which determine whether they are selected. My impression is that this is well understood in the Army but I welcome this opportunity to assure my hon. and gallant Friend that the claims of non-Regular officers are fully considered.