§ 7. Mr. Marplesasked the Postmaster-General when engaging postmen what preference he gives to ex-Service men; and how many non-Regular ex-Service men he has engaged during the 12 months ended 31st March, 1950.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsWhen engaging outside candidates for permanent appointment as postmen, preference is given first to ex-Regulars and then to non-Regular ex-Service men. In 1949, of the 10,147 postmen appointed, 8,764 were ex-Service men, 6,806 being non-Regulars.
§ Mr. MarplesWill the right hon. Gentleman give sympathetic consideration to the claims of ex-Regular service men who are extremely discouraged by the difficulty of obtaining appointments, and at being discharged when they get appointments because they are not established?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThey will be given first preference.
§ Lieut.-Commander Gurney BraithwaiteIs the Minister satisfied that these men, at the time of engagement, always understand the difference between establishment and temporary employment.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsI think all the circumstances of employment are indicated to them, and that they clearly understand them.
§ Brigadier Prior-PalmerWhat is the maximum age limit at which ex-Service men receive employment in the Post Office?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsI should like to see that question on the Order Paper.