HC Deb 07 November 1921 vol 148 cc36-7
72. Mr. ERSKINE

asked the Minister of Pensions whether he is aware that Major Osborne is employed at the Ministry of Pensions Hospital, Denmark Hill, in the capacity of Controller, at a salary of £520 plus his retired pay of major; that Miss Osborne, his daughter, is employed in his office as clerk, a position that could be filled by an ex-service man; and that Mrs. Lackey, another daughter, is employed in the dispensary, a position which could also be filled by an ex-service man; and what he proposes to do in the matter?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the MINISTRY of PENSIONS (Major Tryon)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Miss Osborne is an ex-service woman and is employed not as a clerk, but in a non-substitutable post. It is understood that Mrs. Lackey is dependent upon her earnings for her own support and that of her son, aged 11. Her case has, however, recently been considered by the local substitution committee, who have recommended her discharge.

Mr. MARRIOTT

Is it a fact that Major Osborne had a rather specially distinguished career in the Army and is very specially fit for the office to which he was appointed?

Major TRYON

I must express my regret that the Anti-Waste League should have associated itself with an attack on an officer who has got 35 years' service in the R.A.M.C., 15 years in South Africa, and 5 years of active service in France. I should have thought it might have protected him from the criticism of the Anti-Waste League.

Mr. ERSKINE

I must correct a misapprehension. The Anti-Waste League had nothing to do with it.

Captain LOSEBY

Does my hon. and gallant Friend consider that his rhetorical reply answered the fact that this is a violation of the undertaking given to put into effect the Lytton Report dealing with the substitution of ex-service men for women?

Major TRYON

The employment of a gallant officer who served for 35 years is not in violation of any pledge to substitute men for women; and his daughter, who is continuing to be employed, is an ex-service woman and is not depriving any man who has similar qualifications.

Captain LOSEBY

Is it not a fact that Major, Osborne himself is responsible for these appointments?