§ MR O'MALLEYTo ask the Secretary to the Treasury if he will state the reason for the delay in holding the usual half-yearly examination for second division clerkships by the Civil Service Commissioners; find why vacancies in the various offices are being filled up by the appointment of candidates unsuccessful at the examination held in October, 1901, to the exclusion from competition of those who have been working up for some time and are near the age limit (17–20).
(Answer) There are no regular half-yearly examinations for second division clerkships, but competitions are held from time to time, according to the needs of the public service. When there is a sudden demand for clerks, or there are difficulties in the way of holding a fresh competition, the Civil Service Commissioners, with the consent of the Treasury, offer appointments to candidates unsuccessful in the last competition who have done well in the examination—(Treasury.)