§ Mr. MarlowTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he has taken to assess evidence of nepotism in the selection of officers for certain regiments in the British Army; and if he will set out his policy for curtailing such opportunities.
§ Mr. Freeman[holding answer 20 June 1988]: None. Allocation to regiment or corps is based on a number of factors, including personal preference, ability, aptitude and the current vacancy situation in the individual regiment or corps. All regiments or corps actively seek to identify and encourage potential officer candidates with the right qualities at an early stage. This is a most productive aid to recruitment and the fostering of identity within regiment and corps. Many regiments are, for example, regionally based.
All potential officer candidates must meet the standards of the Regular Commissions Board, which is strictly 317W independent of any regimental connection. The pass rate of sons and daughters of serving and retired officers is not noticeably higher than the overall average pass rate.
Similarly, before joining a regiment or corps, all potential officers must pass their training at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, which is also quite independent.
I am satisfied with the system. However, if my hon. Friend has any evidence of nepotism in the selection of officers for certain regiments, I should be grateful if he would write to me.