§ Sir R. Rossasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that a Post Office employee named John Graham was sentenced on 26th November to 12 years' penal servitude for treasonable activities as a member of the so-called Irish Republican Army; how many other employees of the Post Office are members of this organisation; what means exist for the detection of such people; and what steps are taken to avoid the recruitment of persons belonging to this organisation or who may be considered likely to join it?
§ Mr. W. S. MorrisonJohn Graham was not in the direct employment of the Department, but until February last was employed as an assistant by his mother, the sub-postmistress of Fortwilliam sub-Office, Belfast. The security authorities in Northern Ireland who are responsible for the detection and prevention of treasonable activities are consulted regarding war-time applicants for appointments which afford opportunities of access to important communications and plant. Sub-office assistants are not included in this category. The Post Office also takes appropriate action in any cases involving Post Office staff which are brought to its notice by the security authorities.