§ 39 and 40. Major LEIGHTONasked the Postmaster-General, (1) whether preference is given to ex-service men for the position of head post-master and sub-office postmaster;
(2) why in the form sent in by the head postmaster of the district in respect of candidates recommended for the positions of postmaster or sub-office postmaster there is no reference made as to service in the forces during the War?
§ Sir K. WOODThe answer to the first is in the negative. As regards the second, the reference in question was discontinued in October, 1930. Substantial preferences are given to ex-service men on entry to the Post Office service. Appointments to Head Postmasterships and Sub-Office Postmasterships are by way of promotion and are made on their merits.
§ Mr. HANNONIn the event of two candidates offering their services for this post, would not preference be given to the ex-service man?
§ Sir K. WOODI would like to consider the circumstances when such a case arises. I understand that this rule to which I have referred applies throughout the Civil Service.
§ Mr. HANNONMay I ask why the right hon. Gentleman said that the answer to the first question was in the negative, which would place the ex-service man in the same category as the non-service man?
§ Sir K. WOODThe first question asked whether a preference was given in these particular circumstances.