§ MR. HAYDEN (Roscommon, S.)I beg to ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that on the recommendation of Lieutenant-Colonel Digby, Ballinacuna, Moyvore, county Westmeath, a police constable named O'Hara was appointed to the charge of the Moyvore Post Office; whether he is aware that on the death some five months ago of Mr. S. Forbes, the then postmaster of Moyvore, his widow and one of his daughters took charge of the Moyvore Post Office and gave satisfaction; and whether, in view of the fact that there has been no complaint against the management of the post office by these people, he will explain why they should be disturbed, and also if it is usual for police officers to hold such appointments.
§ THE POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Lord STANLEY,) Lancashire, WesthoughtonThe hon. Member is mistaken in thinking that Mr. O'Hara was recommended to me by Colonel Digby. On the occurrence of the Vacancy, the claims of Mrs. Forbes and of all the candidates were considered, and the conclusion was come to that Mr. O'Hara was the best suited for the appointment, and he was appointed on the condition that he should retire from the Royal Irish Constabulary.