63. Major DAVIESasked the Postmaster-General whether the telegraphists who volunteeered in 1914 were promised full civil pay in addition to their military pay and emoluments; whether he is aware of the value of the services of these men to the Army at that time and that, on 31st July, 1917, it was announced in the "Post Office Circular" that these officers would not, on discharge or transfer to the Reserve, be eligible for the usual Army gratuity; and upon what grounds the contract is varied without the consent of the men affected?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Illingworth)The answer to the first three questions is in the affirmative. In view of the exceptional treatment in the matter of pay already accorded to these men, as compared with those serving in other units, it was not considered that they should benefit by the gratuity issued to soldiers serving on the ordinary terms.