§ MR. J. WILLIAMS BENN (Devonport)To ask the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the proposed increase of established linemen and foremen as notified in the Civil Service Estimates for 1905 and 1906, he can state the reason of delay, in creating the appointments; whether the persons, when appointed, will be required to work fifty-four hours per week, that is three and a half hours longer than the present average; and whether the appointments, when made, will date back from the commencement of the present financial year, 1905.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Burton.) The delay in filling up the foremen's places. 689 shown in the Estimates for last year is due to certain changes of arrangements which it is hoped will soon be completed. No additional appointments to the line man's class are shown either in the Estimates for last year or in those for this year; but a number of fresh appointments have been sanctioned, and these are being filled. The question of the hours of duty has been under consideration, but no decision will be given pending the Report of the Select Committee. The appointments will date from the issue of the Civil Service certificate in each case.