HC Deb 01 September 1909 vol 10 cc348-9
Mr. SAMUEL ROBERTS

asked the Postmaster-General whether his attention had been drawn to the recent examination held at Leeds on 16th June last, preliminary to appointments being made to the service in Sheffield, Leeds, and Bradford, when 50 young girls journeyed from Sheffield at an average cost (including stamp fee) of 11s. 6d. each; that only two appointments were made, though 42 out of the 50 passed, and whether those who passed will now have to await another official notification that vacancies will be filled, or undergo another examination and incur fresh expenses; and whether he will arrange in future that such examinations be held in Sheffield for local candidates, and that the stamp fee and expenses be returned to those candidates who have passed the examination but have not been successful in procuring appointments?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Sydney Buxton)

The arrangements for the examinations in question are made by the Civil Service Commissioners. I am informed by them that at the recent examination Leeds was selected as a centre for reasons of convenience and public economy. The Commissioners state further that the arrangements must depend on the circumstances of each competition, but that they would be willing to consider whether large towns such as Sheffield should be made examination centres for similar competitions in future. It commonly happens that there is a large number of unsuccessful candidates in competitions, and there is no ground upon which the fees and expenses of such candidates could be returned. It cannot be stated at present whether or not it may be practicable to offer appointments to one or two of the unsuccessful candidates in the competition, but, failing such offer, they will have to compete in another competition if they desire appointment.

Mr. ROBERTS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that examinations in former years were held in Sheffield?

Mr. BUXTON

That is so. The Civil Service Commissioners have control of these matters, and they assure me, as I have stated in my answer, that they will consider the case of Sheffield.