§ MR. THOMAS O'DONNELL (Kerry, W.)To ask the Postmaster-General whether he will state how sub-postmasters are classified; what superannuation or retiring allowance are the members of each class entitled to; whether length of service and acknowledged efficiency count in calculating the pension given to those officers; and, if so, will he state the particulars.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) The vast majority of sub-postmasters carry on at the same time a private business, and gave a part of their time only to the public service. These are remunerated by commission, and are not entitled to any pension. There are a few who receive a fixed salary, and, being members of the Civil Service, receive pensions on the conditions laid down by the Superannuation Acts for the Civil Service generally.