§ MR. A. DEWAR (Edinburgh, S.)To ask the Postmaster-General whether he has issued a general instruction that telegraphists are to be given opportunities to acquire a knowledge of clerical duties that are usually performed by senior telegraphists or overseers; and whether he will direct that at Edinburgh steps should be taken to institute a rotary system in accordance with his expressed desire.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) After giving careful consideration to the question, I have decided that the system of employing sorting clerks and telegraphists in rotation upon the simpler writing duties referred to should be extended so far as existing conditions and arrangements will allow. Steps will be taken in this direction at Edinburgh, as at other offices, but the arrangements which it will be practicable to adopt will vary in different cases.