HC Deb 14 March 1922 vol 151 c2001W
Mr. T. GRIFFITHS

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that four girl messengers, who are unqualified and untrained in telegraph work, have been recently employed temporarily in the Belfast telegraph department on duties proper to the class of sorting clerks and telegraphists; that the agreement between the Post Office and the Union of Post Office Workers for the employment of adult temporary labour was put forward by a responsible local officer in justification of the irregular introduction of child labour upon the work of this highly-skilled class; and whether, having regard to the resentment which has been aroused at this threat to the status of the sorting clerks and telegraphists and to the large number of adults unemployed, ex-service men and others, he will issue instructions prohibiting the employment of girl messengers on duties proper to the class of sorting clerks and telegraphists, even though the emergency may be of a temporary character?

Mr. PEASE

I am making inquiries, and will communicate with the hon. Member.

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