MR. PARKERTo ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that assurances were given by previous Postmasters General that telegraphists who entered the service previous to 1896 should not be compelled to perform the duty of letter sorting; and that experienced telegraphists at Halifax, with eighteen years service, are compelled to do letter sorting, whilst junior men from the sorting department are placed on duties attached to the telegraph office; and whether, in view of repeated official statements that the services in large towns are in course of being separated, he will explain the reasons for this action.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.): I am inquiring into this matter, and will give 670 the hon. Member an Answer as soon as possible.