HC Deb 08 July 1920 vol 131 cc1627-8
105. Mr. W. COOTE

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that many ex-soldiers who gave up positions as rural postmen in Ireland in order to join the Colours are deprived of these positions on their return; that positions as rural postmen as they become vacant are in very many cases denied to ex-service men; and will he try to remedy this grievance?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Illingworth)

The places of all regular Post Office servants who left to enlist in the forces during the War were kept open for them, and I am not aware that any postman in Ireland has been refused reinstatement on discharge from the Army. If the hon. Member will give me particulars of any such case I will have enquiry made. Under standing instructions all vacancies for postmen not required for boy messengers are reserved for ex-service men.

Mr. COOTE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many of these boys were under military age during the War and did not enlist and that these men are now given the preference over the soldiers who fought for their country. That is happening all over Ireland, and will the right hon. Gentleman consider it?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

In my answer I stated that if the hon. Gentleman will give me particulars I will have inquiry made, but I am not aware of it.