Mr. MONTAGUE BARLOWasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the present condition of the letter ser- 426 vice in the Chapel Street district of Salford, that letters posted in London before 7.30 p.m. are not delivered in the above district before noon on the following day, that complaints have been made locally and reforms promised, but that no improvement has yet taken place; and whether, in view of the annoyance and loss of business caused to firms situated in the district, he will take steps to have such reforms immediately carried out?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELThe matter is already occupying my attention, and I hope that it may be possible before long to effect improvements which should prevent the delays referred to by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. SNOWDENIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the conditions complained of in this question are common to every part of the North of England, owing to the early hour at which the London night mail leaves?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELI was not aware of that, but I shall make inquiry.
§ Mr. BYLESIs the right hon. Gentleman now satisfied that Salford traders are prejudiced in comparison with their Manchester competitors upon the other side of the Irwell by the postal arrangements he has made?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELNo, Sir; it has nothing to do with the status of Salford post office.