Mr. T. F. RICHARDSasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that there are 11 mail drivers in Belfast employed as follows: two who work 93 hours each for 21s. 6d., four who work 86, 84½, 84, and 79¾ hours for 21s. 6d., four others who work 86½, 76½, 61½, and 57 hours each for 20s., and one man who works 49 hours for 12s.; whether he is aware that the uniform of these men consists of coat, vest, and cap only, whereas the ordinary postmen receive two full suits, including overcoat, waterproof cape, and boots, per year; whether he is aware that the recent inquiry held in Belfast respecting this matter consisted of calling in the contractor's foreman and accepting his statement, without 567 in any way approaching the persons employed; and whether, in view of the statement that the hours worked by mail-cart drivers in Belfast were 60 per week for 21s. 6d., with uniform, he will take the necessary steps to enforce the hours and wages as aforesaid, with the addition to the uniform of trousers, boots, overcoat, And waterproof cape?
§ Mr. BUXTONThe inquiries which I am making in this case are not yet completed, but I will send my hon. Friend a reply as soon as possible.
§ Mr. NANNETTIWill the inquiry be extended to Dublin?
§ Mr. BUXTONI think I recently had a report from Dublin. I will look into the matter, if the hon. Member will give me notice.