§ MR. DELANY (Queen's County, Ossory)To ask the Postmaster-General if he is aware that there is an undue proportion of female labour employed in the Derry telegraph office, with the result that the male telegraphists have to spend three-fourths of the year on late or night duty; will he look into the matter and, if possible, readjust the staff so that reasonable hours may be enjoyed by the male telegraphists.
§ MR. DELANYTo ask the Postmaster-General is he aware that the learners who entered the service in 1903 in Derry office are still unappointed, not withstanding the fact that they have been employed on full duty for the past two years, and constant work has also been found for female substitutes within the period mentioned; and, seeing that an increase in the established staff appears necessary at Derry, would he say when he proposes to appoint the learners in question.
(Answered by Mr, Sydney Buxton.) It will be convenient to answer both of the hon. Member's Questions together. I do not think there is an undue proportion of female labour employed on telegraph duties at Londonderry; but a revision of the indoor force is now under consideration, and the question of arranging the duties to the best advantage will be borne in mind. I hope it will be possible to provide established appointments for the learners in question.