§ 93. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the discontent existing among the temporary postal workers because the men have only received 1s. per week as war bonus and the women 6d.; if a petition has been presented for an advance of 5s. increase on war bonus; the reason why no reply has been sent to the petition; why he has refused to meet a deputation of the workers in question; and if he intends taking any action in the matter?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. J. A. Pease)Many of the temporary postal workers referred to by the hon. Member have recently received increased wages independently of the increased war 404 bonus mentioned in the question. A reply to the petition referred to was deferred until a decision had been arrived at by the Government in regard to arbitration. In view of the decision recently announced by the Prime Minister to appoint an arbitration tribunal, it seems unnecessary to receive a deputation, but I have not, in fact, declined to do so.
§ Mr. THORNEMay I ask when this is going to be arbitrated upon?
§ Mr. PEASEWhen the tribunal is established all questions affecting increases of wages will be referred to that tribunal.
§ Mr. WARDLECan the hon. Gentleman tell us when the tribunal will be appointed?