§ 91. Mr. ROBERT RICHARDSONasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the Government decision to release all conscientious objectors; and whether, in these circumstances, he will permit Post Office servants who have been employed on other work of national importance to return to their Post Office duties?
§ 93. Mr. T. GRIFFITHSasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the decision of the Government to release all conscientious objectors who have served two years in prison; whether, among the men released, there are Post Office servants whose skill and ability would be an advantage to the public service at the present moment; and whether he will withdraw his prohibition against the employment of these men on Post Office work?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Illingworth)I am aware of the decision of the Government to which reference is made, and I am considering to what extent it justifies the reinstatement of Post Office servants who have been allowed to take up work of national importance outside the Post Office. I am not in any circumstances prepared to reinstate men who have remained in prison.
§ Earl WINTERTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a very large number of ex-soldiers, especially members of the Royal Engineers, who were formerly Post Office employés, have the greatest possible objection to serving anywhere with conscientious objectors?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHYes; I am aware of it.