HC Deb 08 January 1942 vol 377 cc54-5W
Sir A. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will arrange that men recalled to the Colours, who attained commissioned rank in the last war, will be allowed to retain that rank while undergoing courses of instruction to bring their knowledge up to date?

Sir E. Grigg

The hon. and gallant Member presumably refers to men who relinquished their commissions at the end of the last war, with permission to retain rank. When such men are called up under the National Service Acts, it does not follow that they will be directed into the ranks of the Army. Each man's case will be given individual consideration with a view to the most appropriate use being made of his services in the national interest. I must point out that many men have already joined the ranks of the Army voluntarily and have relinquished on enlistment the ranks they were permitted to retain; and I feel certain that the House will support me in the view that ex-officers who are now called up under the National Service Acts should not be privileged above ex-officers who have resumed their service in the ranks of the Army as volunteers.