§ Mr. CHARLES DUNCANasked the Postmaster-General whether a member of the night-telephone staff who had served many years in the Army, and retired as a sergeant with an excellent certificate, was summarily dismissed on the ground that he had made an improper remark to a Dr. Kinsey-Taylor; whether this dismissal 1511 has been persisted in because the doctor alleged that he can recognise his voice; and whether, in view of the fact that his dismissal took place before this statement was received by the Post Office, and that his previous career has been ruined by evidence that would not be accepted in a court of justice, he will appoint some independent person or persons to see the parties concerned and advise him as to whether injustice has been committed?
§ Mr. GULLANDThe night telephone operator referred to by the hon. Member was dismissed for the use of grossly improper language which was overheard by a telephone subscriber. The dismissal was maintained on appeal, because there was no room for doubt as to the offence. The matter has already been exceptionally investigated; and I am not prepared to take the course suggested by the hon. Member.