§ 36. Mr. KINGasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that many postal servants assented at the outbreak of war to the taking from their weekly wage of a contribution to the Post Office Relief Fund, but that now they are unable to continue the contribution owing to the greatly increased cost of living, and have accordingly given notice that they desire their wages paid without deductions; and whether he will give orders that such wishes will be respected and the wages paid in full?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELSubscriptions to the Post Office Relief Fund by means of deductions from wages or salary are entirely voluntary, and any notice of discontinuance is duly acted upon. I am glad to say that such notices have been few.
§ Mr. KINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that one or two cases have occurred, in which men who, under peculiar circumstances have wished to withdraw, have been very severely reprimanded by their superiors in office?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELNo, Sir. No such case has been drawn to my attention, and I shall be much obliged if the hon. Gentleman will furnish me with particulars.