NSW Labor MP Hugh McDermott is refusing to consent to the public release of key details of his Australian Army Reserve service to back up a statement in his inaugural speech to parliament that he was a non-commissioned officer (NCO).

In his speech on May 13 last year as the new MP for Prospect, Dr McDermott referred to his time as an NCO in the army reserve, indicating he achieved at least the rank of Lance Corporal.

Labor MP Hugh McDermott is refusing to allow defence to publicly release his service details Credit:Facebook

In a separate document provided to Fairfax Media prepared by him from his recollection, Dr McDermott lists among his achievements a promotion to Lance Corporal in 1990 and then to Corporal in 1991.

According to the army, promotion to Lance Corporal can occur after Initial Employment Training or three years as a Private, and the promotion to Corporal six to eight years.