§ Mr. TOUCHEasked whether civil practitioners who were appointed examining medical officers and have been so occupied under strain for a long period are entitled to a holiday; and, if so, if any and what difference in pay and holiday leave there is between practitioners engaged on a whole-time or permanent basis and others whose duties are partial and temporary although remunerated at a fixed daily rate?
§ Mr. FORSTERYes, Sir, a holiday might be arranged if the work would be carried on in their absence. I am not aware that there is any difference such as that mentioned in the second part of the question, but perhaps my hon. Friend would let me know more precisely to what different classes of practitioners he refers.
§ Mr. TOUCHEasked the Financial Secretary to the War Office why, when civil practitioners who are appointed examining medical officers are allowed 40s. a day for a full day's work and lesser amounts for part of a day, there are practitioners in London doing duty from 9.30 to 5 who are still receiving only 24s. a day, being the same rate of pay as that formerly allowed to them when they were doing only four hours daily; and will he take steps to secure more equitable treatment?
§ Mr. FORSTERThe rate of 40s. is a maximum, the actual payments depending upon the number of recruits examined. The 24s. rate is for a period of regular employment. It covers whole-time service. It is not proposed to make any change.