§ MR. SLOAN (Belfast, S.)To ask the Postmaster - General whether a revision of the staff of the post office in Portadown is contemplated; if so, how long has the question been under consideration and can he state the approximate date upon which a decision in the case is likely to be arrived at; whether under such a revision a considerable increase to the indoor staff is intended, and, if so, what is the probable number; whether it is proposed that the present staff shall be obliged to continue for a further considerable period to perform the duties which in course of time will be distributed over an increased staff; and is he aware that some members of the present staff are and have been for some time past discharging the duties incident to the position of supervisors but without official recognition.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) Proposals for a revision of the indoor staff at Portadown post office were submitted in February last. The revision provides for a small increase to the indoor staff, and will, I hope, be sanc- 542 tioned shortly. Temporary force has been provided to cope with the increased work pending the carrying out of the revision. As regards the last part of the hon. Member's Question I will have inquiry made.