HC Deb 31 January 1951 vol 483 cc876-7
12. Mr. H. A. Price

asked the Postmaster-General what are the normal avenues of recruitment of permanent and temporary postmen. Respectively; and what steps are taken in each case to establish the probity of candidates.

Mr. Ness Edwards

Permanent and temporary postmen are normally recruited through the Ministry of Labour and National Service. References are required from each candidate and are taken up by the Post Office.

Mr. Price

Is not it a fact that at least during the Christmas rush temporary postmen are engaged without references? Does the right hon. Gentleman regard that as being satisfactory?

Mr. Ness Edwards

The difficulty of getting personnel for the Christmas rush is very great indeed. We take what we can get and apply such checks as we can in the time available to us.

Mr. Harry Wallace

Has the Postmaster-General any reason to doubt the efficiency of the method of recruitment or the honesty of the people who serve in the Post Office?

Mr. Ness Edwards

I can see no alternative method of dealing with the problem.