§ MR. FETHERSTONHAUGHTo ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that in many towns in Ireland the business of the Post Office is carried on upon licensed premises, even in considerable towns where there is a choice of suitable premises; has he taken any steps to put an end to this state of things; and, if not, will he give the matter his early attention.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) As I have before stated, when questioned on this subject by hon. Members, it is the rule that sub-postmasters should not be persons licensed for the sale of drink; and it is only when no other arrangement is practicable that exceptions to the rule are allowed. There are very few cases in which the licensed business is not completely separated from the post office business.