§ Mr. W. BAKERasked the Postmaster-General whether he will state the circumstances in which Mr. W. H. Boyle, a Post Office wireless operator who volunteered for special wireless duties abroad with the Wireless Telegraph Commission in 1921, and was absent from this country until November 1922, was deprived of the financial benefits of his appointment as overseer which had been earmarked from 8th January, 1922; why the Post Office did not arrange for his return to this country in order to take up his new post from that date; whether he is aware that 1566W Mr. Boyle was given an assurance before volunteering that his chances of promotion would not be jeopardised in any way; and, if so, whether he will reimburse Mr. Boyle for the loss suffered, approximately £100?
§ Viscount WOLMERThe Wireless Telegraph Commission's work involved travel in various parts of Africa and India, and it would have been impracticable to have recalled Mr. Boyle to this country before that work was completed. His rate of pay and his seniority on the Overseers' class were accordingly adjusted as if he had been promoted on the date from which his Overseership became vacant, and he was awarded a gratuity of £50 in the fixing of which the delay in his promotion was taken into account. I will, however, consider whether, having regard to the duration of his service abroad, an increase in this award is practicable.