§ 17. Mrs. TATEasked the Minister of Labour what proportion of the permanent posts in the Unemployment Assistance Board were given to ex-service men; and whether, other things being equal, ex-service men were given priority?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADExcluding 274 in grades reserved for women, the number of permanent posts at present 1932 filled under the Unemployment Assistance Board is 1,534, of which 933 or 61 per cent. are occupied by ex-Service men. Apart from a limited number filled as the result of open competition, these posts were filled by the transfer of suitably qualified officers already in the permanent service of the State or of local authorities, and in such circumstances the question of ex-Service priority did not arise.
§ Mr. LEACHIn fulfilling this condition about ex-service men is it not true that efficiency has to give way to it?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MUIRHEADI cannot agree to that.