Mr. ALFRED DAVIES(Clitheroe) asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that two members of the telegraph department at York have recently been promoted to the rank of overseer; that these two men have an average of 18½ years' service and that they have passed over 13 men with an average service of 31½ years; whether seven of the men passed over have had special experience with the racing staff, whilst one man has been acting as a provincial clerk in charge for over 20 years, and in the capacity has relieved many postmasters in addition to being in control of military camps; whether he is aware that neither of the men promoted had any experience of the higher duties until within the last few months; and whether, having regard to the suspicion that favouritism has entered into the methods of selection, he will cause very careful inquiries to be made with a view to prevent injustice on the occasion of any subsequent vacancy?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe answer to the first two parts of the question is in the affirmative. Officers employed at race-meetings are good telegraphists but not necessarily well qualified for supervising duties. The officer who has been employed as Provincial Clerk-in-Charge did not give complete satisfaction in that capacity and is not qualified for advancement. The officers selected were given an extended trial on the higher duties and fully demonstrated that they were better qualified for promotion than their seniors. I am satisfied that the charge of favouritism is without foundation. The fullest enquiry is always made into the qualifications of all the eligible officers before vacancies are filled.