GIBRALTAR COMMAND

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23012, 13 April 1938, Page 15

GIBRALTAR COMMAND

GENERAL IRONSIDE'S POST SURPRISE AND CRITICISM LONDON, April - 1 The announcement of the Colonial Secretary, Mr. W. Ormeby Gore, of the appointment of General Sir Edmund Ironside to succeed General Sir Charles Harington as Governor and Commander-in-Chief at Gibraltar, as from October 20, has caused surprise and evoked criticism. Writing in the Daily Telegraph, Major-General Temper ley says: "Gibraltar has always been considered as the dignified end'to a distinguished career. One wonders whether we are so rich in vigorous and experienced soldiers who have held independent com-

mands in war that we can afford to relegate General Ironside; to such a post. His claims rest, not merely oar his past record and very varied experience, but on the belief widely held in the Service that he is the right man to'lead our armies in war. He is young" for his 56 years, fit, and mentally active. He is also by temperament and inclination a commander." Views different from Major-General Temperley's may be heard. It is asked, for instance, whether a more important significance Should not be read into the appointment and whether it might not mean the turning point in the importance of the Gibraltar command. Sir Edmund Ironside was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Mlied troops in Archangel in October, 1918. He has also served as Commandant of the Staff College at Camber ley..