§ MR. J. G. TALBOTasked the Postmaster General, Whether it is to be inferred from his recent answer on the subject of the Savings Bank Department, that the existing male staff will be gradually replaced by a female establishment; and, whether he can give an assurance that further changes in this direction shall be made with greater regard than heretofore to the vested interests of the male officers, whose reasonable prospects of promotion are thereby jeopardized?
§ MR. FAWCETTIn reply to the hon. Member, I may state that I altogether deny that the vested interests of the male officers of the Post Office Savings Banks have been interfered with. So far from the superior appointments in the male branch having been diminished in number, they have been increased. But, even if this had not been the case, the Government is bound, if it becomes necessary to increase the numbers in any Department in the Civil Service, to make the addition in the manner which most conduces to the public advantage. The addition to the staff, which has recently become necessary in the Saving Bank, in consequence of the rapid growth of business, has been to a considerable extent supplied by the appointment of female clerks. In my opinion, the course thus adopted has been very beneficial. With regard to the future, I can give no other promise than that if it again becomes necessary to make an addition to the force that addition will be made in such a manner as will, I believe, most promote the public interest.