§ 43. Sir R. THOMASasked the Postmaster-General whether he is prepared to frame regulations making a knowledge of the Welsh language an essential qualification for all new appointments to postal 1447 staffs in the predominantly Welsh-speaking parts of Wales?
§ The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Viscount Wolmer)After carefully considering the hon. Member's suggestion I do not think that there are adequate grounds for introducing special regulations for the purpose he has in view.
§ Sir R. THOMASDoes the noble Lord not think it very discourteous not to have Welsh-speaking civil servants in the areas where the people speak that language?
§ Viscount WOLMERIn those areas where a knowledge of the Welsh language is necessary we always insist on it. If my hon. Friend has any cases in mind where this is not the case, I will go into them.
§ Sir R. THOMASDoes the noble Lord not realise that this is not a question of necessity but of courtesy?
§ Viscount WOLMERWhere it is thought to be desirable we insist on it.