§ MR. CLYNES (Manchester, N. E.)I beg to ask the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that postmen in Manchester are compelled to propel weights ranging up to 123 pounds in carrier tricycles; whether the Post Office are ignoring a regulation which provides that men are not compelled to propel weights exceeding 70 pounds 1031 and, if so, whether he can take steps to immediately enforce the regulation.
§ MR. SYDNEY BUXTONNo definite limit has been laid down for the weight to be conveyed on carrier tricycles in town districts, as it necessarily depends largely upon local circumstances, such as gradients, distances, etc. I am assured that the loads propelled by postmen at Manchester are not excessive and work out at an average of 55 pounds. After a discussion with the Postmen's Federation, I recently instructed the Second Medical Officer of the Post Office to inquire into the whole question of the weight to be carried on carrier tricycles in consultation with a doctor nominated by the Federation. Their inquiry is now in progress.
§ MR. CLYNESWill the right hon. Gentleman consider that this is a matter which can be settled on the basis of averages?
§ MR. SYDNEY BUXTONI cannot say that, but the question is now under consideration with a committee nominated by the Postmen's Federation. Until I get their Report I can give no undertaking.