36. Mr. CATHCART WASONasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the dissatisfaction that exists in Shetland owing to the irregularity of the delivery of mails; and if he will have inquiry made as to the possibility of improving the service; if he has received from the town clerk, Lerwick, a request for certain information relative to the dispatch and delivery of mails, and if he will reconsider his decision not to afford the information desired; if he will state how many mails have been delivered at Fair Isle during the last three months; and how many were contracted for but have not been delivered?
§ Captain NORTONThe contractors for the Shetland mail service have agreed to a revision, of the arrangements with a view to more regular performance of the service in future, and a new contract is in course of preparation. It is unusual to furnish the detailed information for which the Lerwick Town Council asked, and I do not think any useful purpose would be served by giving it in this case. Four trips were made to Fair Isle with mails during December and two in January. No mails have been delivered, though efforts were made to land since the 17th January, but I am informed that the mail boat again started for Fair Isle early this morning.
§ Captain NORTONI think that is understood.