15. Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether service in the Royal Irish Constabulary disqualifies applicants for appointments as collectors of Income Tax; and, if so, whether the rule will be altered so that they may become eligible?
§ Mr. BALDWINThe Board of Inland Revenue have given instructions that in filling vacancies in collectorships of taxes preference is to be given to discharged and particularly disabled sailors and soldiers who have the necessary qualifications for the post. Subject to the priority accorded to ex-service men in accordance with these instructions, ex-members of the Royal Irish Constabulary are eligible for appointment on the same terms as others.
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that officers have been given to understand that they are definitely precluded, and in view of these men having served under conditions not far removed from war service will he let it be known to the Royal Irish Constabulary that they are eligible?
§ Mr. BALDWINI am only aware of the answer I have just given.