55. Mr. NEWDEGATEasked the Postmaster-General whether, as a sequence to the Holt Report, the postmen at Sutton Coldfield and Erdington, offices under Birmingham, are now to receive the same scale of pay as at the following offices: Harborne, Moseley, Selly Oak, and Hirchley, which are equally offices under Birmingham, and where the cost of living is similar?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThe classification of offices for scales of pay does not depend primarily on the cost of living. The cases of Sutton Coldfield and Erdington will receive consideration in connection with the general review of classification which is being taken in hand in accordance with the recommendations of the Select Committee on Post Office Servants, but, as was contemplated by the Committee, it may be some considerable time before the matter can be decided.
Mr. NEWDEGATEWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the transfer of these men from Class III. to Class II.?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThe whole of the circumstances surrounding these two places, with other places, will be considered. It may result in their going up one class, or it may result in their going down. I cannot make any promise.