§ Colonel YATEasked the Lord Advocate why so small a percentage of ex-Service men, namely 20.71, are employed under the Prisons Commissioners, Scotland; and whether, in view of the fact that many ex-Navy and ex-Army men are well qualified for such posts as those of attendants and warders, he will give instructions that the percentage of ex-Service men employed by the Prisons Commissioners should be raised to at least 50 per cent. as soon as possible as vacancies occur?
§ The LORD ADVOCATE (Mr. Ure)All applications from ex-Service men are considered, but a very large number of candidates are found to be ineligible, as they do not fulfil the requirements of the War Office Regulations as to the civil employment of discharged soldiers. Appointments are given to all ex-Service candidates considered suitable, but many do not care for the work, and resign before long. The percentages of total appointments given to ex-Service candidates during the last four years ended 30th September, are:—
It will thus be seen that the average of such appointments in recent years is well over 40 per cent.; and in these circumstances, while all such applications will be carefully considered, I do not think that it would be desirable to give such further instructions as are suggested by the hon. and gallant Member.
1908 … … … 46 per cent. 1909 … … … 40 per cent. 1910 … … … 40 per cent. 1911 … … … 42 per cent.