HC Deb 25 April 1958 vol 586 c108W
Mr. Russell

asked the Secretary of State for War the maximum length of service which, under his arrangements, constitutes a short-service commission.

Mr. Soames

The maximum initial period of a short-service commission for officers entering from civil life is eight years. When this has been completed, an extension up to a maximum total of 11 years may be granted in certain circumstances.

Regular warrant officers with more than 12 years' service may be given a short-service commission which is for up to 15 years for combatant officers and up to the age of 53 for non-combatant officers.

In addition, officers may be considered for extended service commissions which may normally be held up to the age of 55, though the age limit is higher in certain Corps.