22 JUNE 1918, Page 3

The statements by Sir Auckland Geddes in the Commons on

Tuesday do not mend matters, and were largely irrelevant. He said that there is no difference in the grading of men above and below forty-three, and then went on to define Grade I. as that of a man " who attains the normal standard of health and strength, and is capable of enduring physical exertion suitable to his age." We have already defined Grade I. as it has existed in practice since it came into being. Sir Auckland Geddes's self-contradictory statements are as unsatisfactory as his " one per cent. of com- plaints," coupled with a refusal, " for reasons of State," to say to what period the one per cent. refers.