§ MR. W. H. JAMES (Gateshead)asked the Postmaster General, Why those is no telegraphic delivery office in connection with the Gateshead Post Office; or whether a similar state of things exists in any other borough with a population of 60,000?
§ THE POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. RAIKES) (Cambridge University)The telegrams for certain outlying districts are delivered from the post office in Gateshead; but as regards other portions of the town the delivery is effected from Newcastle. This arrangement was made in what were believed to be the best interests of the residents. A large force of messengers is maintained at the telegraph office at Newcastle, and that office has direct communication with most of the principal towns in the Kingdom. It was believed, therefore, that messages for Gateshead could be more quickly delivered from Newcastle than from the post office in Gateshead itself. The arrangement is an exceptional one; and I may say that the question whether it should be maintained is at present under consideration. I shall be happy to receive any suggestions from the hon. Member or his constituents.