§ Lieut. - Colonel MASONasked the Under-Secretary of State for War what are the additional duties which have necessitated an increase in the Military Secretary's Department from three staff officers in 1913 to eight staff officers in 1923: and when a return to pre-War establishment may be anticipated?
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSThe number of staff officers and officer clerks, who perform similar duties to staff officers, in the Military Secretary's Department is now 16 as compared with nine in 1913–14. The increase is due to permanent additions to the work of the Department caused by transfer from other sections of the War Office, increased work arising from the reorganisation and reduction of the Army, and temporary work due to the War which is only gradually diminishing. It is difficult to say when a reduction to pre-War establishment will take place, but the question is constantly under consideration and every effort is being made to effect reductions compatible with efficiency.