HC Deb 25 July 1927 vol 209 c842
53. Sir FRANK NELSON

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of a grievance existing amongst a certain class of postmen who served in the War, known as hostility men, who are now employed on part-time duty, six hours per day at 37s. 6d. per week, including bonus, inasmuch as other entrants into the Post Office who have subsequently served seven years in the Army, Navy and Air Force in peace time are now being brought into the postal service for established employment over the heads of the class originally indicated; if he can state whether there are grounds for this grievance; and, if so, whether he will consider steps for removing them?

Viscount WOLMER

I am not aware of the cases to which my hon. Friend refers, and if he will send me particulars I shall be glad to have inquiry made in the matter. He is, I presume, aware that employment as part-time postman gives no claim to permanent appointment, and that ex-service men employed on part-time duties can only be considered for appointment to full-time posts if they are put forward by the Employment Exchange in turn with other ex-service men. I may also add that in filling vacancies "hostilities" ex-service men are now given preference over ex-service men who enlisted subsequent to the Armistice.

Mr. R. MORRISON

Is not the real solution for the Post Office to get down to the problem of the abolition of casual labour?

Viscount WOLMER

I do not think that has anything to do with the matter.