§ MR. BIRKBECKasked the Postmaster General, What is the maximum weight carried by rural Post Messengers since the establishment of the 171 Parcels Post; the maximum distance they have to walk in a day; their present average weekly salaries; and to what extent, if any, their salaries have been increased since the introduction of the Parcels Post?
§ MR. FAWCETTSir, in reply to the hon. Member I may state that at the time of the introduction of the Parcel Post instructions were given to Postmasters throughout the country that the combined weight of letters and parcels carried by any postman should not exceed 35 lbs. If it appeared that a heavier weight than this would generally be carried, the postman was usually mounted; and special instructions were given that in exceptional cases, where an excessive weight would have to be carried, assistance in some form should be provided. Speaking generally, eight or nine miles each way may be regarded as the maximum distance walked by rural postmen. The pay is adjusted according to the distance traversed and the wages prevailing in the locality. There has been no general revision of wages since the introduction of the Parcel Post; but when it is thought there is any special reason for an increase of pay, it is given. I may mention that lately the system of good-conduct stripes, carrying allowances of 1s., 2s., or 3s. a-week, which formerly was confined to London, has been extended to the entire country, and rural postmen participate in the advantage. Within the last two years the arrangement has been adopted of allowing every rural postman a week's holiday annually.