§ MR. COBB (Warwick, S.B., Rugby)I beg to ask the Postmaster General whether he is aware that considerable dissatisfaction exists among persons living in country places, at a distance from any telegraph office, at the present high charges for the delivery of telegrams; whether he is aware that, having regard to the rates of wages and of horse hire in country districts, telegrams could, without loss to the Post Office, be delivered on foot at 3d. per mile, and by mounted messenger at 8d. per mile; and whether the subject has beer; or will be, considered with a view of making some reduction in the existing charges at an early date?
§ MR. RAIKESThe general question of the charges for the delivery of telegrams has been more than once considered, but I am quite prepared to have further inquiry made in view of the circumstances now existing, and I shall be glad to let the hon. Member know the result in due course. He will readily understand that the inquiry will occupy some time. I should, however, say that I have considerable doubts as to the practicability of establishing a general rural delivery of telegrams at the rates suggested in the question.