HC Deb 14 June 1921 vol 143 cc222-3
33. Mr. BRIANT

asked the Postmaster-General the number of part-time officers employed and whom it is intended to employ, for the purpose of reducing the excessive overtime in the women's branches of the Savings Bank Department; and to what extent, if any, their employment has so far resulted in reduced overtime?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Approximately 200 part-time officers are employed and it is not at present proposed to increase the number. The arrangement has not yet reduced the amount of overtime as there are still heavy arrears of work to be overtaken.

Mr. BRIANT

Considering the large amount of unemployment amongst men and women, is it not possible to employ some of those men and women instead of allowing so much overtime?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I think the present part-time staff is the largest that could economically be used, and I am anxious that overtime should be severely reduced.

Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCK

Then why not do it?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Because it is impossible.