§ SIR SAMUEL SCOTT (Marylebone, W)I beg to ask the Prime Minister whether he is aware that only forty-four per centum of the established messengerships in Government offices have during the last three years been granted to ex service men; and whether, in view of the fact that ex-service men are eminently suited for these posts, he will give instructions that for the future ex-service men are to be appointed to these posts, provided suitable candidates are forthcoming.
§ THE PRIME MINISTER AND FIRST LORD OF THE TREASURY (Sir H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN,) Stirling BurghsI believe that the figures of the hon. Member are correct; but after giving consideration to the matter, which has: been brought to my attention on more than one occasion, I do not see my way to recommending that in future, ex-service men only are to be appointed to Government messengerships.
§ MR. BYLESasked if the 56 per cent. of the persons appointed who were not accounted for in the Question had not served the country just as faithfully in the walks of peaceful industry.
§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI know nothing of the quality of the 56 per cent.
§ SIR SAMUEL SCOTTDoes the right hon. Gentleman approve of the appointment of ex-butlers and ex-footmen to these posts?
§ SIR H. CAMPBELL-BANNERMANI should like to know something about them before I expressed an opinion. I disapprove any cast iron rule on the subject.