§ Mr. Prescottasked the Secretary of State for War how many Africans now hold commissions in the Gold Coast Regiment and in the Nigeria Regiment of the West African Frontier Force; how many have been granted within the last year; how many it is anticipated will be granted within the next twelve months; and whether any such officers are to hold a Governor's commission or His Majesty's commission.
§ Mr. LawsonAfricans hold commissions in the Nigeria Regiment and the Gold Coast Regiment but I am unable to give the numbers as the records of officers with King's commissions do not distinguish between those of African and European descent. I understand, however, that two Africans have been granted commissions in these Regiments in the last year. There is, of course, no bar to any African being granted a King's commission provided he is recommended and passes a selection board. I cannot say how many Africans394W may be granted commissions within the next 12 months and whether these commissions will be Governors' commissions or King's commissions depends on decions not yet taken regarding the future status of the Royal West African Frontier Force.