§ Sir DONALD MACLEANasked the Secretary of State for War whether he will give directions that disabled soldiers who are skilled motor drivers shall get preference in any vacancies at the War Office, although they may not be physically eligible for re-enlistment; is he aware that advertisements are being issued asking for women to offer themselves for training in order to fill posts which could be satisfactorily taken by demobilised soldiers; and is he also aware that the Midlothian local war pensions committee has protested against the procedure above referred to?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLCivilians have been and are being employed for driving War Department motor vehicles, and when engaging drivers preference is given to ex-Service men. As I explained on Tuesday last, there are certain services which it is considered must be performed by enlisted soldiers or properly enrolled persons; the number of women drivers employed is being gradually reduced as enlisted soldiers become available to take their places. I am not aware of the protest mentioned in the last part of my right hon. Friend's question.
§ Mr. GEORGE BALFOURasked the Prime Minister whether, in demobilising the temporary staffs of Government Departments, care will be taken, as far as possible, not to demobilise officers and men who have served overseas during the War until men who were eligible and have not so served are dispensed with?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINAs the hon. Member is aware, a Committee has recently considered the whole question of extending the employment of discharged soldiers in the Government service, and I shall be glad to consider the hon. Member's suggestion in connection with their Report.