§ 22. Mr. Hoyasked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he is aware that many men of the 1914–18 class are being dismissed from the services of the G.P.O. in Edinburgh; and what action he is taking to stop these dismissals.
§ Mr. BurkeI am aware of the position. These men, who were engaged for temporary employment only, are now redundant, following the return of permanent staff from the Forces, and the resumption of recruitment on a permanent basis 765 through the normal machinery, and are being discharged in accordance with general arrangements agreed with the staff representatives for the discharge of redundant temporary staff. I do not propose to intervene.
§ Mr. HoyCould the Minister give an assurance that these men are not to be discharged and preference given to married women?
§ Mr. BurkeNo, Sir; the arrangements for discharge of persons taken on temporarily have been made in conjunction with the staff. It has nothing to do with married women at all.