§ Major STEELasked the Secretary of State for War when orders were issued that the force known as the Kent Force was to be disbanded; what are the numbers of staff officers still serving on the various staffs of this force; what are the numbers of regimental officers; what are the numbers of the rank and file; and is he aware that the fact that such a large number of staff and other officers is being retained to administer such a small force as this force now consists of is causing comment of a very unfavourable kind?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe orders for the disbandment of the Kent Force were issued on 22nd October, 1918, but various measures of reorganisation following on the Armistice have necessitated a partial suspension of these orders. The numbers asked for are: Eight staff officers, 144 regimental officers, and 1,379 other ranks. The staff officers are employed on completing the demobilisation of units, the administration of the rest camps at Canterbury, and the administration of the cadres of certain Cavalry units which are being reformed. It is recognised that the number of regimental officers is large in comparison with the number of other ranks, but their temporary retention has, I understand, been unavoidable pending a general review of the number of officers available and required on reorganisation. It is expected that disposal of all surplus personnel and the entire disbandment of the units comprising the Kent Force will now be completed very shortly.