HC Deb 27 February 1911 vol 22 cc34-5
Mr. CRUMLEY

asked the Postmaster-General whether his attention has been called to the fact that a rural postman named Thomas Armstrong, at Lisbelaw, county Fermanagh, has been returned for trial on a charge of shooting at a Nationalist band and on other charges; and whether he has been, or will be, suspended from duty pending the trial?

The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Herbert Samuel)

I have looked into the case referred to by the hon. Member. It seems clear that Mr. Armstrong has not maintained that reserve in political affairs which is required from a Post Office servant. He will, therefore, be suspended from duty until this breach of the Post Office regulations has been dealt with.

Mr. MOORE

Have the Post Office come to a decision on this man's conduct before he has been tried?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

No, Sir, not with respect to the charge on which he has been before a magistrate and committed for trial to the next assizes. But meanwhile it seems desirable he should no longer deliver letters to the men he is alleged to have been shooting at.

Mr. MOORE

If he is acquitted will he be reinstated in the service?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

It depends whether he has committed any offence against the Post Office regulations. That is being inquired into.