§ MR. PLUMMER (Newcastle-on-Tyne)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster General, whether he is aware that there are 38 telegraphists with an average service of 27 years waiting promotion at the Newcastle-on-Tyne Post Office; and whether, in view of this stagnation of promotion, steps will be taken to facilitate the same by enforcing in future the Civil Service regulation with reference to retirement at the age of 60 years.
§ MR. AUSTEN CHAMBERLAINThe Postmaster General is aware of the circumstances referred to by the hon. Member, but he would not feel justified in enforcing the retirement of any efficient officers for the purpose of accelerating the promotion of others.