§ MR. W. C. STEADMAN (Tower Hamlets, Stepney)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the 1527 Postmaster General, whether, in view of the facts that the only staircase at present permitted to be used by the male staff of the Central Telegraph Office for the purpose of gaining access to the instrument galleries is too narrow for the purpose, and that many complaints have been received regarding the offensive smells in connection with the adjacent rooms, the Postmaster General will authorise that some of the six remaining exits may be opened for the convenience of the staff until the alterations have been completed; and whether the Postmaster General can state when the structural alterations, promised last August, in connection with the premises from whence the smells emanate, will be commenced?
§ MR. HANBURYNone of the six staircases mentioned communicate direct with the cloak rooms of the male staff of the Central Telegraph Office, and, if used as suggested, the staff would have to walk some distance in the open air after leaving their hats or coats in the cloak room. It is feared that such a course would be more inconvenient than the present arrangement. It is impossible to state when the structural alterations in question will be commenced. The plans are being prepared, but none of the additional premises which are being acquired for the purpose will come into possession till Michaelmas next.
§ MR. STEADMANWill the right honourable Gentleman push the matter on as rapidly as possible?
§ MR. HANBURYYes. The Post Office intend to get possession of the premises immediately.