HC Deb 10 July 1913 vol 55 c582
43. Mr. HUNT

asked in view of the fact that a civilian was chosen for the sub-postmastership in the village of Cookham, Berkshire, instead of a colour-sergeant of twenty-four years' service, with war medals and with an exemplary character and highly recommended by one hundred prominent residents, whether soldiers of long service and the highest character are or are not preferred to civilians who have not served their country?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

Under an arrangement with the War Office half the vacancies for postmen and porters are reserved for soldiers of long service and good character. For appointments such as that to which the hon. Member refers it is the practice to make the selection solely with regard to the merits of the various candidates, and the suitability of the premises in which they propose to conduct Post Office business.

Sir W. BYLES

Is there no way but soldiering by which a civilian can serve his country?