§ 21. Lieut.-Colonel APPLINasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury 1178 whether the Civil Service Commissioners propose to hold the entrance examination for Civil Service clerkships this year, and, if so, on what date; and is he aware that the postponement of this examination from its usual date in January will debar a number of candidates who will reach the age limit before the next examination?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Major Elliot)I am not yet in a position to say when it will be necessary to hold the next open competition for the clerical classes. I am aware of the fact mentioned in the last part of the question, but I regret that I am unable to waive the normal age limits in the cases which my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind.
§ Lieut.-Colonel APPLINWill the right hon. Gentleman publish as soon as possible the date of this examination, in order that those who have reached the age limit may have the opportunity of con-considering some other means of earning a living?
§ Major ELLIOTAs I have said, I am not yet in a position to state a date.