52. Mr. ATHOLL ROBERTSONasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of his statement made prior to the Election in support of the policy of establishing competent ex-service men without examination, he will give immediate instructions that all pending Departmental examinations shall be stopped and that competent men at present working in Departmental classes shall be absorbed on the permanent establishment on the results of their previous work in their respective Departments?
§ 57. Sir HERBERT NIELDasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Government of South Africa established without examination all temporary ex-service men in the South African Civil Service who had given five years' satisfactory service; and whether, in view of his statement before the recent General Election, he will issue instructions that a similar course shall be adopted regarding ex-service men in Government employ in this country?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Snowden)As the answer is a long one I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ The answer is as follows:
§ As hon. Members are aware, effect has been given to the recommendations of the Lytton Committee in regard to the establishment of ex-service temporary clerks. I have no information as to the arrangements adopted in South Africa. The question what, if any, further opportunities should be given them to qualify for such permanent appointments as may be available falls to be dealt with by the Southborough Committee, who, I am confident, will give full consideration to the 1573 just claims of ex-service men. The Departmental examinations referred to are similar to those held in other Departments for affording ex-service men temporarily employed a special chance of entry to the permanent service. They are part of the machinery set up following the recommendations of the Lytton Committee, and it would be unreasonable, and, indeed, unfair, to suspend all such arrangements pending completion of the Southborough Committee inquiry.