HC Deb 02 May 1890 vol 344 cc11-2
MR. ARTHUR WILLIAMS) (Glamorgan, S.

I beg to ask the Postmaster General whether he can state why he recently declined to receive a deputation of second class officers of the Savings Bank Department (Major Establishment of the General Post Office) on the subject of their re-classification with the "Second Division" of the Service, although he personally received a deputation of telegraphists on a recent occasion; and whether the same classification will be applied to the Secretary's Office, Accountant General's Office, and Money Order Office, as is to be applied to the second class of the Savings Bank?

*THE POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. RAIKES,) University of Cambridge

In reply to the hon. Member, I intimated to the officers to whom he refers my reason for not receiving the deputation. That reason was that, having made myself acquainted with all the facts of the case, and having come to a final decision, which, in my opinion, is a just and proper one, I have no intention of departing from that decision. The case differed entirely from that of the telegraphists, with regard to most of whose requests I have not yet arrived at a decision. As regards the last part of the question, I will, when the interests of the Service permit, give the hon. Member the information he asks for.

MR. A. WILLIAMS

Is it the fact that a Memorial has already been presented signed by 71 of the members of the Accountant General's Office, asking the right hon. Gentleman to consider the grievances of the clerks in this matter?

*MR. RAIKES

I am not quite sure. I believe there has been some communication, but I will ascertain.

MR. A. WILLIAMS

Is it not the fact that these Civil servants are under the impression that their case has not been sufficiently made known, together with their objections to the new scheme. Would it not be better, under the circumstance, for the right hon. Gentleman to allow a deputation to see him in order to explain their position?

*MR. RAIKES

I am always glad to receive a deputation if such a course would facilitate a decision; but when a decision has been arrived at, there is very little use in receiving a deputation. I believe that the scheme which has been determined upon is more favourable than any other that has been suggested.

MR. A. WILLIAMS

Would it not tend to remove a misconception which prevails in their minds if the right hon. Gentleman would receive a deputation and explain matters?

*MR. RAIKES

I am always anxious to receive and to give information.