HC Deb 20 May 1914 vol 62 cc1962-3W
Sir J. D. REES

asked the Postmaster-General why those efficient engineers of long service who were alleged to be inefficient at the time of the engineering revision of 1911, who are now admitted to be qualified for, and are actually carrying out, the duties of assistant engineers, are denied the title and scales of pay proper to that class?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The men rejected in 1911 were not considered to be as well qualified as those selected for inclusion in the new class of assistant engineers. There are no vacancies at present, but the claims of those who are now regarded as qualified are being considered as suitable vacancies arise. There has been some unavoidable overlapping of duties as between the old class of second-class engineers and the new class of assistant? engineers, but the circumstances are not such as to justify promotion in advance of vacancies.