HC Deb 04 July 1904 vol 137 cc484-5
MR. SLOAN

I beg to ask the Postmaster-General, if he can explain under what circumstances did the funds at the money order counter in Belfast become exhausted on the 28th ultimo; is he aware that this has happened on several occasions; and whether, in view of the fact that the public were detained pending arrangements being made with the bank, he will give instructions for adequate arrangements for the prompt disposal of the public demands.

LORD STANLEY

I am informed that on 28th June the cash in the hands of one of the clerks at the counter was exhausted by the presentation of a Savings Bank Warrant for a considerable sum. He at once took steps to obtain a fresh supply; and no serious inconvenience seems to have been caused to the public. There does not appear to have been any other case recently in which the funds at the money order counter were exhausted.

MR. SLOAN

But is it not the fact that this has occurred several times, though perhaps not recently?

LORD STANLEY

I am not told so.

MR. SLOAN

It is the case.