§ CAPTAIN NORTON (Newington, W.)I beg to ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that a man named Soundy, after having served with the Army in South Africa and serving as a telegraphist on the temporary staff, passed the examinations and medical tests necessary for qualifying for the permanent staff in February, 1904, but has not yet received an appointment owing to a dearth of vacancies; and, if so, whether, in view of the fact that another examination for learners is announced, he will direct that Soundy, having been out of regular employment for several months, should be given an appointment before other persons are brought into the service.
LORD STANLEYI regret that, owing to the dearth of vacancies, it has not yet been possible to appoint Mr. Soundy to the permanent staff, but I hope that temporary employment may be found for him in the meantime. The forthcoming competition for learners is intended to meet the future requirements of the Department and will in no way interfere with Mr. Soundy's appointment at as early a date as possible.