HC Deb 09 March 1916 vol 80 cc1713-4
79. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Postmaster-General what amount it is proposed to save by discontinuing the sub-post office at Fore, Westmeath; and whether, in view of the hardship this would impose on the old age pensioners of the district in addition to the inconvenience to the general public, he will have the proposed change reconsidered and not persisted in?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Pike Pease)

I am not aware of the facts of this case, but I may say that, in the interests of economy, discretionary power has been given to local executive officers to close any rural sub-post office, on the occurrence of a vacancy, where the business done is small and the circumstances otherwise are suitable. In such cases practically the whole cost of the office is saved, and ordinary postal requirements can be met by the postman who delivers letters in the locality.

Mr. GINNELL

The hon. Gentleman has not stated the amount saved by closing this office?

Mr. PEASE

I said I was not aware of the facts of this particular case. There certainly are some hardships in regard to this question, but under existing conditions that is inevitable.