§ 62. Mr. PETOasked the Postmaster-General whether a letter was received by his Department, dated 25th September, from the medical officer of the borough of Devizes, calling attention to three cases of pulmonary tuberculosis that had occurred in the staff of the Devizes Post Office in two years, the last being that of Postman Keefe, and calling attention to the necessity for limewashing and disinfecting the premises and for the provision of better ventilation; and what action his Department took at the time or since, or propose to take, for the protection of the staff and the public?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELSuch a letter was received by the postmaster of Devizes. There had been two previous cases, but not within the last two years. One officer was superannuated in October, 1906, the other in May, 1907. Mr. Keefe, who is a sorting clerk and telegraphist, has been absent from the office since 4th September last. The premises ought to have been disinfected or limewashed, and I much regret that this was not done. With regard to the possibility of improving the ventilation, further and special inquiry is 414 being made by the Post Office surveyor personally.
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELYes, I think as a rule our standard is at least as high or higher.