§ MR. BENN (Devonport)To ask the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the proposed increase of established linemen and foremen, as notified in the Civil Service Estimates for 1905 and 1906, he can state the reason for the delay in creating the appointments; whether the 996 persons, when appointed, will be required to perform fifty-four hours per week, that is, throe and a-half hours longer than the present average; and whether the appointments, where made, will date back from the commencement of the present financial year, 1905.
(Answered by Lord Stanley.) Some inquiry is necessary before I can give a full reply to the hon. Member, but I will communicate my Answer to him as soon as possible.