§ Mr. R. MORRISONasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that married ex-service men are being engaged through the Employment Exchanges as part-time night telephonists at 1s. per hour; that the hours worked are approximately 18 per week; that the men engaged, although earning only 18s. per week, out of which they have to pay 4s. per week travelling money, are debarred from unemployment benefit; and whether he will take steps either to increase the amount or the number of hours so that the men thus employed can obtain a living wage?
Sir W. MITCHELL-TROMSONI am aware of the facts stated, but the attendances required are only for two or three hours in the evening (usually after 8 p. m.), and there is no available work which can be added. The posts are intended to he filled by persons who have other part-time employment or other means of livelihood, but it is not practicable, in present circumstances, to refuse to employ candidates who are otherwise unemployed. I am, however, making inquiry as to the rate of pay.