HC Deb 01 November 1944 vol 404 c790
36. Mrs. Adamson

asked the Postmaster-General the reasons for the cancellation of the local agreement to permit girl probationers under 16 years of age at the Central Telegraph Office, London, release from duty half an hour before black-out time; and if reconsideration of this matter will be given in the interests of these young persons.

Captain Crookshank

During previous winters it has been possible to provide for the girl probationers' work by the employment of adult telegraphists, but this year there is a serious shortage of telegraphists and repetition of the previous arrangements would have meant excessive overtime. Individual girl probationers are on duty till 8 p.m. only about two weeks in every fifteen; and they have the option, if they prefer, of using officially provided sleeping accommodation.

Mrs. Adamson

Will the Minister reconsider this matter, because this has been very much appreciated by the parents of these young pople? Why this cancellation in the fifth year of the war?

Captain Crookshank

I have just explained that it is because of a very serious shortage of telegraphists.