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What was the Reserve Forces Act 1937?

Introduction The Reserve Forces Act 1937 (1. Edw. VIII & 1. Geo. VI, c. 17) was an Act of Parliament of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It allowed “Class A” British Army reservists to be called up for active service during their first five years after leaving the Army. Background During the Army reforms… Read More

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What was the Reserve Forces and Militia Act 1898?

Introduction The Reserve Forces and Militia Act 1898 (61 & 62 Vict. c. 9) was an Act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom, which came into force in 1898. background The Act allowed up to five thousand men of the Army Reserve to be called out on permanent service, without requiring the approval of… Read More

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What was the Officers’ Commissions Act 1862?

Introduction The Officers’ Commissions Act 1862[1] (25 & 26 Vict. c. 4) was an Act of Parliament of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. Background It provided that any officer’s commission in the British Army could be issued without the royal sign-manual, provided that it was signed by a principal secretary of state and the… Read More

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What was the Esher Report (1904)?

Introduction The Esher Report of 1904, chaired by Lord Esher, recommended radical reform of the British Army, such as the creation of an Army Council, General Staff and Chief of the General Staff and the abolition of the Commander-in-Chief of the Forces. The change to the character of the Army has endured. Background The Second… Read More

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Who was Bryan James Budd?

Introduction Bryan James Budd, VC (16 July 1977 to 20 August 2006) was a British Army soldier and a Northern Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces. Budd was a corporal in the 3rd Battalion, Parachute… Read More