§ MR. BRADLAUGH (Northampton)asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether it is the rule that Civil Servants employed under the War Office are compulsorily retired at the age of 60; and, if so, whether Mr. James Smeaton, now employed under the Assistant Adjutant General for recruiting, is aged 74, and receives salary as chief clerk, notwithstanding that he has for three years been excused from the most important duties of the office?
§ THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY, WAR DEPARTMENT (Mr. BRODRICK) (Surrey, Guildford)(who replied) said: 17 The general rule is that civilian clerks employed in positions which would ordinarily be filled by superintending military clerks are retired at 60 years of ago; but it has not been long in operation, and is being gradually applied. The case of Mr. Smeaton has not yet been brought forward for consideration; but a Report as to his efficiency is being called for. He has not been excused from any duty.