§ Mr. CHARLES DUNCANasked the Postmaster-General whether he was aware that in many of the post offices in little drapery, grocery, and other shops the post office is situated in the most remote corner of the shop, and that, in consequence, ventilation, light, and air being deficient, the health of the clerks who are mostly females, is impaired; whether he is aware that many of those clerks are on duty for twelve, hours, less meal times, per day; and whether he can see his way to take steps to have these evils remedied?
§ Mr. GULLANDEvery sub-postmaster is required to supply adequate accommodation both for the public and for the staff; and the conditions come under review periodically. If the hon. Member will give me particulars of any cases he may-have in mind in which reasonable requirements are not met I will have inquiry made. Assistants at small sub-post offices are not in the direct employ of the Department, it being incumbent on the sub-postmasters, who act as agents for the Post Office, to provide for the work out of the remuneration they receive. In many cases the assistants are also employed in the sub-postmasters' private business.