HC Deb 10 July 1913 vol 55 cc590-1
59. Mr. CASSEL

asked the Postmaster-General whether it is the practice in the Post Office to employ temporary labour through the Labour Exchanges to any and, if so, what extent; and whether in such cases independent inquiries as to character are made by the postal authorities or whether recommendation of the Labour Exchanges is accepted?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

By arrangement between the Post Office and the Board of Trade the temporary labour required by the Post Office to meet Christmas pressure has for sonic years been engaged through the Labour Exchanges. It has always been the practice to make full inquiry as to the character of applicants, including the taking up and verification of several references. Last winter, for the first time it was arranged for this work to be done by the Labour Exchange officials in lieu of the Post Office, but on the same lines as previously. The arrangement provided that the results of these inquiries should be submitted to the local postmasters to guide them in making their final selection among the applicants. Apart from temporary Christmas labour, temporary labour of other classes is engaged through the Labour Exchanges from time to time. The arrangements made in these cases are variable according to local circumstances. I hope to be in a position on Monday to answer a question, of which notice has been given, dealing with a specific case which has lately arisen at Coventry.

Mr. CASSEL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the practice of taking the recommendations of the Labour Exchanges without any further inquiry on the part of the Post Office has been the subject of adverse comment; and, in view of that, will he alter the practice?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The Labour Exchange officials themselves take up the references as to character. In regard to the adverse comment in a case which was heard at Warwick Assizes not long ago, I hope to be in a position on Monday to make a statement. I am now investigating all the circumstances of the case, in conjunction with my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade.