§ Mr. WATERSONasked the Postmaster-General whether there is a shortage of skilled telegraphists in the home service at the moment; whether he is endeavouring to secure the return of telegraphists with the forces in the hope of securing something like pre-war efficiency; whether there are a number of highly skilled telegraphists who because they are conscientious objectors have been prevented from working at their trade; and whether, in the interests of the commercial needs and the public service of the country, he will permit these Post Office servants to resume their normal occupation?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHIt is the case that there is a shortage of skilled telegraphists in the home service at present, and that the military authorities have been asked to expedite the return of a number of telegraphists from the forces. As regards the last part of the question, I refer the hon. Member to the answer to the questions by the hon. Members for Houghton-le-Spring and Pontypool.