HC Deb 30 November 1911 vol 32 cc570-1
Colonel YATE

asked if the right hon. Gentleman will explain why so small a percentage, namely, 12.25, of ex-Service men are employed under the Prisons Board, Ireland; 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, etc., he will give instructions that the percentage of ex-Service men employed by the Board should be raised to at least 50 per cent. as soon as possible, as vacancies occur?

Mr. BIRRELL

The General Prisons Board inform me that though the percentage named represents the proportion of ex-Service men employed in the Irish Prison Service, the number of such men appointed to vacancies during the past three years amounted to 53 per cent. of the vacancies.

Colonel YATE

Will the proportion be maintained?

Mr. BIRRELL

I see no reason why it should be departed from.

Colonel YATE

Will the right hon. Gentleman give instructions to that effect?

Mr. BIRRELL

I do not think there is any occasion to give instructions, because at the present moment things are pursuing the course which the hon. and gallant Gentleman recommends.