MR. BUCKNILL (Surrey, Epsom)I beg to ask the Postmaster General whether arrangements were made and concluded by the Post Office, so far back as a year since, for laying down telegraphic communication with Burgh Heath, in the County of Surrey, for the transaction of public telegraph business there; whether any reason exists for the delay in carrying out the said arrangements; and whether eligible residents at Burgh Heath have offered to take the post and telegraph office there, and to work the same?
MR. A. MORLEYIt is the case that nearly a year ago the Post Office undertook to extend telegraphic com- 1579 munication to Burgh Heath. Great difficulty was, however, experienced in obtaining the necessary permission to erect the telegraphs, both from private persons and from the Surrey County Council. When these difficulties were at last overcome the Sub-Postmaster declined to conduct telegraph business, and it appeared that there was no other eligible person who could be appointed to the office. I am now informed of two applicants for the post, and I have given instructions for the necessary inquiry to be made with a view to ascertain whether one of them can be recommended. If so, I will see that there is no further delay in carrying out the telegraph extension.