MR. BUTCHER (York)I beg to ask the Postmaster General whether be has had an opportunity of considering a Petition of the Metropolitan Districts Countermen and Telegraph Clerks, dated the 28th of February, 1893, and having reference to the conditions of their annual leave, and whether a reply to such Petition may shortly be expected; and whether he has had an opportunity of considering a Petition of the Metropolitan Districts Countermen and Telegraph Clerks, which was presented on the 16th of May, 1883, having reference to their duties and pay, and whether a reply to such Petition may shortly be expected?
THE POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. A. MORLEY,) Nottingham, E.The Petition of the 28th of February from the countermen and telegraphists in the Metropolitan District was duly considered, but before an answer could be sent the Petition of the 16th of May, 1893, which raised the whole question of the conditions of employment of these officers, 1570 was received, and it was thought best to deal with the two Petitions together. The subjects dealt with by these Petitions are still under consideration, but I hope shortly to be able to reply to the Memorialists.