§ 49. Mr. HARRISasked the Postmaster-General at what ages young people, boys and girls, are recruited for the postal service; what branches of the postal service are open to young persons between the ages of 14 and 18; is cognisance now taken of the increasing number of young persons whom it is desired to retain in central schools and other senior schools until they have completed a four-year course at the age of 15 plus; and, if so, what are the appropriate openings in the postal service for ex-central school boys and girls of the age of 15 or 15 plus?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONThe upper limits of age for entry as boy messenger and girl probationer are 14½ and 15, respectively. For young persons retained at school beyond the age of 15 the following posts are open: Clerical class, writing assistant, sorting assistant, sorting clerk and telegraphist, telephonist, youth-in-training (Engineering Department) and probationary inspector (Engineering Department). The clerical class and the writing assistant class are common to the Civil Service. In fixing, the age limits for the various posts, due consideration is given to the school leaving age.
§ Mr. HARRISWould the right hon. Gentleman consult the President of the Board of Education as to the most suitable ages for entering the Post Office service? There are developments taking place.
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONI will consult my right hon. Friend.