HC Deb 11 February 1943 vol 386 c1461W
Major Thornton-Kemsley

asked the Secretary of State for War at what age officers of the rank of lieutenant-colonel and upwards are now placed on the retired list; and whether he considers that an automatic retiring age is desirable at a time when man-power and experience are greatly needed?

Sir J. Grigg

The ages for compulsory retirement of officers of the rank of lieutenant-colonel and above are as follow:

Lieutenant-Colonel 50
Colonel 55
Major-General 57
General or Lieutenant-General 60
which may be extended to 62

During the war these age limits are not applied automatically. Officers who reach these ages, and whose services are still required, are retained on the active list, supernumerary to establishment.