HC Deb 01 January 1913 vol 46 cc365-7
62. Sir CHARLES HENRY

asked the Postmaster-General if he could give information as to the proposed removal of the post office of Wellington, Shropshire; whether a site in Walker Street has been acquired for this purpose, and, if so, before selecting the site, the opinion of those mainly interested as to the position of the post office has been obtained; and, if not, before proceeding further with the matter, will he take into consideration the views of those best able to form an opinion?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The post office premises at Wellington, Salop, are inadequate to the requirements, and, as no satisfactory scheme of enlargement is practicable, it has been decided to break the lease and provide a new office. A site in Walker Street has been selected for the purpose, and arrangements with a view to purchase are in progress. The site in question is about 330 yards from the present office and the railway station, but is in close proximity to the urban district council offices, the free library and the telephone exchange, and would appear to be quite as convenient for the principal shops and business premises of the town as the site of the present office. The selection of the site was determined only after careful consideration of the general requirements of the town.

Sir C. HENRY

Has not my right hon. Friend received a letter from the Urban Council of Wellington protesting against the proposed site and stating the reasons for that protest? Will he satisfy himself that the premises at present used do not possess a sufficient area to enable them to be extended sufficiently to meet the Department's requirements?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

The whole point has been most carefully investigated and I am advised that it is not practicable to enlarge the present post office. Representations have been received in opposition to the removal; indeed, whenever it is proposed to remove a post office there are always representations from those in its immediate proximity against the removal.

Mr. STANIER

Was the council of the town consulted before the removal was decided upon?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I should like notice of that question.

Sir C. HENRY

Will the right hon. Gentleman ascertain if the proposed site has not been generally condemned by the bulk of the inhabitants of Wellington?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

My information is to the contrary, but I will make further inquiry if the hon. Member puts another question down.