§ Mr. Prittasked the Secretary of State for War what are the basic rates of pay for first- and second-lieutenants in the Army Educational Corps, and how they compare with the corresponding rates for infantry officers; whether the education officers are required to hold university honours degrees; why they are paid less than all other officers; whether he is aware that this anomaly is causing considerable discontent; for how long the question of increasing these rates has been under consideration; and when a decision is likely to be reached?
§ Sir J. GriggThe basic rates of pay for second-Lieutenants, lieutenants and captains in the Army Educational Corps is 10s., Its. 10d. and 19s. a day. The corresponding rates for infantry officers is 11s., 13s. and 16s. 6d. a day. Except in the case of selected warrant officers and non-commissioned officers of long experience in the corps and occasional officers with specialist qualifications in music, art, etc., candidates for commissions in the Army Educational Corps are required to possess honours degrees coupled with experience of teaching and /or educational experience. The rates of pay of the Army Educational Corps are the some as the rates for infantry officers, before the changes made as a result of the recommendations of the Warren Fisher Committee. Rates for infantry officers were then increased for subalterns and decreased for junior captains; the Committee did not, however, make any recommendations regarding 953W Army Educational Corps rates or, for that matter, regarding departmental rates generally. The question of increasing the Allay Educational Corps rates has been under consideration since last September and a decision is expected shortly. I am not aware of the discontent referred to in the Question.