§ MR. J. BETHELL (Essex, Romford)To ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that a number of senior telegraphists in the London Central Office who have passed the necessary examination in practical and theoretical telegraphy for the post of assistant superintendent, and have been assisting for some time in the work of supervision, have now been removed from these duties and placed upon ordinary telegraph work, while officers junior to them who have not passed the technical examination have been placed on supervising duties; and if he will state the reason, for this action.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) The facts are as stated. The object of the arrangement is merely to test the qualifications of the various officers so as to select more certainly those best qualified for promotion. The absence of superior officers on leave during the summer affords convenient opportunity for the application of such tests. No injustice is done to the seniors by giving their juniors occasional opportunities of proving their capacities. The claims and qualifications of all will be carefully considered when vacancies occur, and any officers who have not yet passed the technical examination will be required to do so before promotion.