§ MR. SLOANTo ask the Postmaster-General if he can say under what circumstance it has been considered necessary to employ six temporary sorting clerks in Belfast post office since 1907; if the necessity for employing these officers justifies an increase of staff; and, if go, if steps will be taken to do so.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) The employment of temporary sorting clerks and telegraphists was sanctioned as the best alternative to overtime pending definite provision for the duties concerned. Authority has already been given for replacing them by established officers.