§ Mr. Gloverasked the Secretary of State for War, in view of the Government's decision to end National Service, what are his proposals for maintaining the supply of officers to the Territorial Army.
§ Mr. SoamesOn 1st May, 1958, there were sufficient volunteer officers in the Territorial Army to fill 72 per cent. of the establishment. This is a satisfactory position which we need to maintain and improve if possible. In particular, we require more young volunteer officers to come into the T.A. including those who, because of the reduced call-up, have had no full-time Army experience.
At present, men under the age of 26 may not be commissioned in the T.A. unless they have completed their whole-time National Service. This rule is being amended. In future, all men between the ages of 18 and 30 will be eligible provided that:
- (a) they are recommended by the regiment or corps and vacancies exist for them in the units of their choice;
- (b) they possess Certificate A or B—otherwise they must first join the ranks and obtain a satisfactory report after one annual camp;
- (c) they are approved by a Command Selection Board;
- (d) they have the academic qualifications required by their arm of the Service
Successful candidates will be on probation as second lieutenants for two years. During that time they must obtain satisfactory reports at an annual camp and, unless they hold Certificate B, must attend a fifteen-day course at Officer Cadet School.