§ MR. BROADHURST (Nottingham, W.)asked the Postmaster General, Whether it is a fact that telegraphists in London are paid overtime for the work they perform between midnight on Saturday and midnight on Sunday; and, if so, whether he will extend this proper recognition of exceptional labour to the provincial telegraphists?
§ THE POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. RAIKES) (Cambridge University)In reply to the hon. Member, I have to state that a similar Question was put to the right hon. Gentleman the Member for East Wolverhampton (Mr. Henry H. Fowler) in March, 1886, and I am disposed to concur with the reply which he then gave. The arrangements in London differ from those in the country, and wages in London do not include remuneration for service on Sundays, which is, when performed, paid for separately. The question of pay for Sunday work in the Provinces was carefully considered at the date of the reorganization of 1881, and the scale of weekly wages was fixed so as to cover two hours' work on Sundays. Applications have been received by three successive Postmasters General for further pay in addition to that given on Sundays, and have been refused by each. I am not prepared to depart from that decision.