asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether any conscientious objectors have been promoted, since the Treasury circular of 10th September last, over the heads of civil servants who served in the forces during the War; and, if so, how many, and in what Departments?

There have been three such promotions.

When we compare the respective records of these two sections of civil servants, can the hon. Gentleman give me one single reason for the preferential treatment of the conscientious objectors?

That question does not arise out of the question on the Paper. [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh!"] It has no connection with it, and I have already answered on a previous occasion.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, when the House was not sitting on 10th September, his Government reversed the decisions of all previous Governments since the end of the War; and does he not now consider that he ought to give one reason for this reversal of policy?

I would point out that it is not the practice in this House to answer a question which does not arise in any way from the question on the Paper.

Are we to have no reason from the Government for this action?

May I ask—

May I—[Interruption].

I called the hon. and gallant Member for Buckingham (Sir G. Bowyer).

I beg to give notice that I shall call attention to this question on the first possible opportunity.