Ministry of Information (Staff).

Oral Answers to Questions — Royal Air Force. – in the House of Commons at on 7 February 1940.

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Photo of Major-General Sir Alfred Knox Major-General Sir Alfred Knox , Wycombe

asked the Minister of Information why a junior female clerical officer was recently promoted to the higher clerical grade over the heads of some 17 officers, mostly ex-service men with greater seniority; whether the post had any special features for which only the promoted female officer had the necessary qualifications; and will he give an assurance that in making future promotions to this grade, full regard will be had to the experience and qualifications of senior clerical officers eligible by seniority for such promotion?

Photo of Sir John Reith Sir John Reith , Southampton

The officer to whom I think my hon. and gallant Friend refers was selected before the war for a post, recently advanced in grade, which she has filled since the war began. It requires special experience and qualifications, and this officer was considered the most suitable person for promotion to it. I have no hesitation in giving the assurance asked for in the last part of the Question.