(a) Court-martial.--In any case not extending to the dismissal of a commissioned officer, the sworn testimony contained in the duly authenticated record of proceedings of a court of inquiry of a person whose oral testimony cannot be obtained may, if otherwise admissible under the rules of evidence, be read in evidence by any party before a court-martial if the accused was a party before the court of inquiry and if the same issue was involved or if the accused consents to the introduction of such evidence.

(b) Use of testimony by defense.--Such testimony may be read in evidence only by the defense in cases extending to dismissal or dishonorable discharge of a commissioned officer.

(c) Court of inquiry.--Such testimony may also be read in evidence before a court of inquiry by either party.