FAVORITISM.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVI, Issue 8186, 30 July 1912, Page 6

FAVORITISM.

The Minister of Defence and General Godley have made statements explaining the reason for promoting an oflicer who has not complied with the military regulations and superseding an officer who has passed the prescribed examination, thereby compelling him in self-defence to leave the service. This, article contends that in taking up such a position those in authority are endangering the welfare of the Territorial system.

It was strongly urged by. the advocates of compulsory training that one of its chief recommendations was that promotion would be dependent upon merit; that the humblest soldier would have the opportunity of winning his spurs; and that the old system of favouritism and haphazard selection would be completely done away with. The attitude taken up by the Minister of Defence upon the advice of Major-General Godley in the case of ex-Captain Frandi makes it clear that department has not hesitated to make light of this sat lutary principle. It has lightly waved aside its own regulations, and has decided to play the game according to rules made to suit individual circumstances. Here are two officers: the one has proved his competency by long years of strenuous and effective service ending up as colour : sergeant in one of the crack volunteer corps, being select ed for promotion for captaincy by his superiors, and then winning his right to preferment by actual examination; the other, no doubt a capable -officer and an enthusiast, but incompetent to hold his commission under' a regulation which prescribes that unless he

has passed his examination within a certain period, he shall resign his position, being improperly promoted and retained in a position of seniority. General Godless explanation is that in the initial stages it is not possible to keep to the “strict letter of the law,” and be expresses the opinion that “Captain Simoon is the better officer of the two.” This favoritism, puro and simple. It is an injustice not only to Captain Frandi, but to other officers who aro affected by “tliis irregular method of promotion. Such actions on the part of those in authority make for neither efficiency nor discipline, and if persevered with will have a serious effect upon the morale of the whole service. It is stated that commissions are being given to young men who have seen no previous service, and who have not qualified by examination. W© object to„ this method of procedure. It is absolutely essential in a citizen army that only thoso who have won their spurs shall ho entitled to wear them. This matter cannot ho allowed to rest until justice has boon done.