HC Deb 21 March 1922 vol 152 c272W
Mr. RAPER

asked the Postmaster-General why the publicity officer recently appointed by him was not engaged through the Joint Substitution Board according to Treasury instructions; why a non-service man was selected; what efforts were made to secure a qualified ex-service man; whether the post was advertised; if not, how was this official obtained; whether at the present time numerous trained journalists fully qualified for this post, who have served with His Majesty's forces, are at present unemployed; and will he undertake to make inquiries through the Joint Substitution Board with a view to obtaining an ex-service man for this post?

Mr. PEASE

In view of the special qualifications required for the post in question, my right hon. Friend considered it desirable to obtain the services of a man who had been engaged on similar work in another Government Department. Such a man was available, and in the circumstances he did not consider it necessary to advertise the post. The present holder of the post performs his duties satisfactorily; and it is not considered that it would be in the public interest to replace him.