HC Deb 14 September 1893 vol 17 cc1142-3
MR. FIELD (Dublin, St. Patrick's)

I beg to ask the Postmaster General whether he is aware that delivery of the mails off the steamship Teutonic, regarding which an inquiry was made, would have reached London sorted ready for delivery at or about 7.30 a.m. on the 6th instant if a throughout service had been ordered by the Post Office Authorities; and whether, in the interests of the public, it is intended to continue the expeditious service via Cork, Kingstown, and Holy-head, after the expiration of the present year?

MR. A. MORLEY

If the special service referred to had been used the mails would probably have arrived in London about the time stated; but the Teutonic did not bring a full mail and did not arrive at Queenstown within the time laid down for a special service. The case, therefore, did not come within the conditions which govern the use of that service. No decision has been arrived at on the point referred to in the last paragraph, but the subject will be carefully considered before the end of the year.

MR. SEXTON (Kerry, N.)

In connection with this matter, has the right hon. Gentleman yet determined to issue tenders in view of the expiration of the present contract?

MR. A. MORLEY

It will be a long time before the present contract terminates—it expires in the year after next, if next year a 12 months' notice is given to end it.

MR. FIELD

What is the number of sacks necessary to constitute a full mail? Is it 41?

MR. A. MORLEY

It does not depend on the actual number of sacks.

SIR T. ESMONDE (Kerry, W.)

Could not the contract be terminated a year hence by giving notice at the end of this month?

MR. A. MORLEY

No.

MR. DANE (Fermanagh, N.)

The right hon. Gentleman says the contract expires in September, 1895, providing a year's notice is given. Could he not give that notice now?

MR. A. MORLEY

I do not quite see how this arises on the question. If notice is put on the Paper I will answer it.