§ Dr. SHIELSasked the Postmaster-General how many men have been dismissed from the Post Office service in the East of Scotland district during the last 12 months, and how many of these were ex-service men; and, in view of the declared policy of the Government, why these men are not transferred to ether Post Office work instead of being turned out after years of service, sometimes with only two days' notice?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONIn consequence of completion of work, the services of 236 men in the Engineering Department (of whom 191 were ex-service men) have unfortunately had to be terminated in the Scotland East district since 1st February, 1928. The terms of engagement of these workmen admitted of their discharge without notice, but it is the practice to give as long notice as possible, and I understand that seven only were given less than a week's notice. Employment in an unestablished capacity in the Engineering Department gives no claim to employment in other subordinate grades in the Post Office, e.g., as postmen, for which there are long waiting lists of ex-service men. It is however, of course, open to ex-service men discharged from the Engineering Department to register at the Employment Exchange for postmanships; and they would then be considered in their turn with other ex-service men. The discharged men will be considered for further employment in the Engineering Department as opportunities occur.