Mr. DOYLEasked the Secretary of State for War if he is in a position to give the number of promotions from the ranks during the past 12 months; how many were due to war services; how many were due to merit; and whether it is proposed to continue to give non-commissioned officers and men every facility to win commissions.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLSince January, 1919, seven permanent Commissions in the Regular Army have been granted to soldiers serving in the ranks. In each case the promotion was made in respect of War services. As regards the last part of the question, the conditions under which Warrant Officers, non-Commissioned officers and men can now gain permanent Commissions were promulgated recently in Army Order 86 of 1920. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of this Order.
I would add that on the occasion of the last two entries to the Royal Military College and the Royal Military Academy, namely, in September and January last, 46 cadetships were awarded to ex-soldiers, sailors and airmen.