HC Deb 27 March 1919 vol 114 cc584-5
35. Major BLAIR

asked the Postmaster-General if he will state whether in engaging ex-Service men for service in his Department they must be under thirty years, of age and in receipt of a pension?

Mr. PRATT (Lord of the Treasury)

Thirty is the nominal maximum age limit for appointment as postman, but various extensions are permitted in favour of reservists, pensioners, and others. A pension is not a condition of appointment, but preference is being given as far as possible to disabled men, who naturally are in receipt of a pension.

37. Sir J. HOPE

asked the Postmaster-General how many temporary and other employés have been discharged from the postal, telegraph and telephone service since 11th November, 1918?

Mr. PRATT

About 3,500 males and 30,000 females

Sir J. HOPE

Are not these employés drawing out-of-work donation and giving no work in return, and would it not be better to retain them until all pre-war postal facilities are restored and all permanent postal servants are demobilised?

Mr. PRATT

Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will put that question down.