Mrs. Adamsonasked the Postmaster-General in what circumstances an invitation issued to Post Office clerical and executive staffs to apply for transfers to the newly formed Ministry of Supply was withheld from the staff of the Post Office Stores Department; and whether he is aware that there is grave discontent amongst the staff on this matter?
§ Mr. MabaneThe Stores Department has, in addition to its normal work, recently been called upon to undertake supply work for other Departments in connection with Air-Raid Precaution Services and National Service. In the current year it is responsible for the provision of over 3,000,000 uniform garments and articles of equipment for auxiliary fire services, warden services, nursing auxiliaries, land army, etc. In consequence, the Department is under heavy pressure and extensive overtime is being worked. In addition, a number of senior officers have already been released recently for service in other Government Departments, thus improving promotion prospects in the Stores Department. In these circumstances it was decided that the efficiency of the Department might be endangered if further releases were made.
I am aware of some disappointment at this decision. Nevertheless, I am confident that the difficulties of the present position are understood.