§ 84. Mr. ROBERT MORRISONasked the Postmaster-General what was the actual cost to his Department of the recent examination when, in order to fill five vacancies for sorterships, 1,600 candidates were invited to sit at a fee of 10s. each?
§ Captain KINGThe limited competition held in March last for appointments as sorter in London and sorting clerk and telegraphist (postal) in the provinces was, in normal course, conducted by the Civil Service Commissioners without direct cost to the Post Office. Some expense, which I am unable to estimate, would be incurred by the Post Office in cases where it was necessary to provide for the candidates' normal duties during their absence at the examination. The total number of 461 candidates who sat for the competition in London was 902. A nominal number of appointments as sorter, namely, five for each of the two London sections of the Competition, was offered as the ultimate requirements of the work are uncertain; but the competition will be drawn upon for at least 12 months and it should not be assumed that the actual number of appointments will not be greater.