HC Deb 22 March 1888 vol 324 cc28-9
MR. CALDWELL (Glasgow, St. Rollox)

asked the Postmaster General, Whether it is the case that vests are supplied as part of Post Office uniform to first-class postmen in London, whilst vests, at one time supplied, are no longer supplied to first-class postmen in Edinburgh; if so, what is the reason for the discontinuance of that article of clothing in the case of Edinburgh; and, whether, if postmen can go without vests in Edinburgh, they cannot equally go without them in London?

THE POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. RAIKES) (Cambridge University)

Vests are supplied to the first-class town postmen in London. Vests have at no time been supplied to postmen in Edinburgh. Postmen in Edinburgh are supplied with a tunic which should always be worn buttoned; therefore, the necessity for a vest does not exist. Postmen in London are supplied with an open coat, for which a vest is needed; hence the difference between the two classes of uniform.