HC Deb 15 May 1919 vol 115 c1760
57. Mr. CAIRNS

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that conscientious objectors have been released from the control of the Committee on the Employment of Conscientious Objectors; whether he is aware that the Postmaster-General persists in his refusal to re-employ any of the Post Office servants, who come under this heading; and whether, now that these men are free to seek re-employment, he will issue instructions that no barrier must be placed between them and useful work?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Illingworth)

I have been asked to reply to this question. I am aware that the Committee on Employment of Conscientious Objectors have discharged all the men employed under their control. I am consulting with the Treasury as regards the restoration of conscientious objectors to their normal positions in the Post Office.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in Canada no conscientious objectors are allowed to be employed in the Civil Service, and will he take care that none are employed in this country?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

I was not aware of that. I am consulting with the Treasury on this matter.