§ MR. SLOAN (Belfast, S.)To ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware a petition was presented by the telegraphists at Belfast, in November, 1902, asking an immediate improvement in the lighting of the instrument room by the introduction of arc lamps; that the authorities at Belfast confirmed the necessity for such lamps; and that the petitioners were informed in April, 1903, that the matter was receiving consideration; and, if so, can he state what steps have or are being taken in the matter.
(Answered by Lord Stanley.) Arrangements for effecting an improvement in the lighting of the instrument room in the head, post office at Belfast have been sanctioned, and the work will shortly be carried out. It is doubtful whether arc lamps could be used with advantage, and it is not proposed to introduce any at present