Mr. T. F. RICHARDSasked the Postmaster-General whether the site for the new post office at Stafford has been decided upon; if so, whether the site chosen is in Eastgate-street; whether, before anything definite is done, he will take steps to consult the town council of Stafford, who consider that any new post office in Dr. Maston's house or on that site would be in a ridiculous position, owing to its being entirely out of the way; and whether it would be advisable, as far as possible, to consult the premier governing body of a town when the convenience of its inhabitants is under consideration by the postal authorities?
§ Mr. BUXTONNo decision has yet been arrived at as regards a site for a new post office at Stafford, and the local feeling which appears to have been aroused is based therefore on a misapprehension. Various offers of sites have been received in reply to advertisement, and are now under consideration. I have already recognised the advisability of ascertaining the town council's views before a particular site is selected, and reference was, as a matter of fact, made to the council in regard to a site which was under consideration last year. I may take the opportunity, however, of pointing out that negotiations for the purchase of sites which are subjected to undue publicity are apt to come to nothing. When the Post Office is known to be in the market, holders of sites are disposed to ask more than I am prepared to pay.