§ 83. Mr. PRETYMANasked if the right hon. Gentleman is aware that at the Ingatestone Post Office a staff of eighteen men, three messengers, and four clerks have only one small room, about sixteen feet square, provided for them; that the ventilation of this room is insufficient; and that the sanitary arrangements are inadequate, there being no privy for their use except at the postmaster's private house; whether representations on this subject have been repeatedly made to him and his predecessors during the past three years; and whether he will at once provide decent temporary accommodation pending the erection of new premises?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELThe accommodation at the Ingatestone Post Office is admittedly unsatisfactory and inadequate. More than one scheme of improvement has been under consideration, but none has hitherto been found suitable. Further measures are now being taken. The desirability of taking temporary accommodation to supplement or supersede the present office has not been overlooked. So far no suitable premises have been found, but the inquiry shall be pursued.
§ Mr. PRETYMANDoes the right hon. Gentleman not consider, especially in view of the present weather and health and sanitation, it is his duty to make instant provision for these men, and does he not consider it to be an urgent matter?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELI understand that there are no other premises suitable, but I am having further inquiries made.
§ Mr. PRETYMANIs the right hon. Gentleman prepared to pay more money? If he is, he can always get accommodation if he will pay for it.
§ Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKIf the Development Commissioners are prepared to spend £20,000 for the growing of osiers, is it not advisable for them to spare a few hundred pounds to build a cottage for the postmaster at Ingatestone?