§ Mr. Skeffingtonasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that most British battalions saw active service with between 15 and 20 officers, he will reduce to this level battalions with a compliment of officers above 30 and thus enable speedier demobilisation of officers.
§ Mr. LawsonBecause of the shortage of officers, all battalions proceeding overseas are underposted by one-third of their officer establishment, while those on occupational duties are allowed still less. In practice, when allowance is made for leave, sickness and absence on duty, the average strength is not more, and may well be less, than that suggested by my hon. Friend.