§ 20. Major HORE-BELISHAasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty, with reference to the examination which is contemplated for ex-service men employed as temporary civil servants under the Admiralty, whether he is aware of the, great hardship which such examination imposes upon those who have done good service to the country over long periods of time and under very difficult conditions, having done five years or more of good work under the Government since the War; and whether he will state why they have now to submit to an educational, Departmental and medical test to ascertain whether they are fit for retention in their present capacity, although they have given every satisfaction and have demonstrated their ability; and whether he can see his way to exempt these men from the examination proposed or 2235 their dismissal as the result of such examination?
§ Mr. AMMONThe examination which was held on the 3rd July was of a comparatively simply character and suited to the age of the ex-service competitors, and should not have imposed great hardship on any of he candidates. Appointments of temporary clerks to the clerical grades of the Civil Service are made by examination, and this practice has been endorsed by Lord Southborough's Committee in its final Report. No person can be given an established post until he has satisfied the Civil Service Commissioners of his physical fitness, amongst other factors. As T have already explained to the hon. Member, there is provision for the medical standard to be relaxed in the favour of men whose health has been impaired as a result of service in the forces in the late War.
§ Major HORE-BELISHAWill the hon. Gentleman see that these ex-service men are not displaced, seeing that they have done long, continuous, and satisfactory service for many years; will he give the House that assurance?
§ Mr. AMMONif the hon. and gallant Gentleman looks at the reply which I have given, he will see he has that assurance.