HC Deb 02 November 1911 vol 30 cc1008-9
Captain CRAIG

asked the Postmaster-General whether he received a communication from the inhabitants of the parishes of Killany and Inniskeen, South Monaghan, through the medium of the rector, requesting an evening collection about 6.15 and the erection of a pillar box on the public road near the railway station; whether he is aware that such a pillar box at Essexford would convenience not only residents in the county Monaghan, but also those on the border in the county Louth; that the pillar was half built and the box about to be placed in position, when the postal authorities suddenly ordered the work to be stopped; can he state why their decision was reversed at the last moment; and will he give instructions to have the scheme completed that the residents may enjoy postal facilities to which they have been looking forward?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The facts are as stated. The erection of the box was suspended because of local opposition to its substitution for an existing box near its site. The matter was fully explained to the rector by letter on the 16th August.

Captain CRAIG

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the inhabitants of all classes in this particular district are very anxious that this pillar box should be erected, and why will he not carry out what was the original intention of the postal service?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I have had no evidence to that effect, but a very numerously signed petition reached me protesting against the removal of the box from the previous site, also a resolution from the local district council.

Captain CRAIG

Why does the Department allow itself to be dictated to by the United Irish League? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is purely a political move from that body?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I do not think that the placing of a pillar box is likely to be a matter of political controversy.

Captain CRAIG

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the present box is close to a public-house and that it is particularly desired by the United Irish League that it should remain there?

Mr. FLAVIN

Would the Postmaster-General seriously consider the advisability of converting the hon. Member into a pillar box?