§ 56. Mr. W. J. BROWNasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the outbreak of boils and carbuncles among the staff of the mechanical transport section of the Post Office stores housed in the old workhouse in Endell Street; whether he is aware that the accommodation in this building is infested with mice, which are themselves affected with skin diseases; whether he is aware that in the same building there is a bacteriological laboratory; and whether he will either remove his staff 1908 from the building or take steps to remove the vermin and the bacteria?
§ Mr. LEES-SMITHThis matter has been engaging my attention. It is the case that some members of the staff referred to have suffered from boils and carbuncles. A medical inspection has been made, and I am advised that there is no connection between this outbreak and the proximity of a bacteriological laboratory or the presence of mice in the building. In view of the possibility that infection may have been spread by contact, disinfectant is now being used; and I am taking up the question of improving the sanitary arrangements. Urgent measures are being taken to exterminate the mice.
§ Mr. BROWNIs the Postmaster-General aware that the discontent with the present accommodation is not confined to members of the staff, but extends also to the mice; and will he take urgent steps to relieve both of the necessity of living in an old workhouse?
§ Mr. MACQUISTENCould not the Postmaster-General get a number of cats to inflict capital punishment on the mice?