Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that the vacancies in the newly created grade of inspectors, second class, in the engineer-in-chief's department have been filled by unestablished men, in many cases by youths with only a few years' service; will he state why the established linesmen and mechanics, a number of whom possess technical knowledge and practical experience, have been passed over; and whether, in view of the statement made to a deputation by the engineer-in-chief that this grade was an avenue whereby the linesmen and mechanics could secure promotion to the position of engineer, he will make inquiries for the purpose of ascertaining why these men were not given the opportunity of securing this promotion?
§ Mr. BUXTONThe vacancies referred to have been filled as stated. It was never the intention to promote linesmen and mechanics to the position of inspector, second class, and I am not aware that the engineer-in-chief made such a statement as is described. To first-class inspectorships linesmen only are appointed in normal circumstances.