HC Deb 27 February 1919 vol 112 cc1957-8
80. Captain TUDOR-REES

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the closing of the post office at Barnstaple every dinner-hour causes great inconvenience; and whether, now that the reason for such closing, shortage of labour, is removed, and there is an adequate supply of labour available in the borough, he will put an end to the practice?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

I hope that it may shortly be possible to discontinue the midday closing arrangement at the Barnstaple Post Office.

Mr. BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider closing them for one hour? Most post offices close for two—from 1 to 3.

84. Mr. LYLE-SAMUEL

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the inconvenience caused to the people of Leiston, Suffolk, and the district by the present restricted postal service, he will consider the immediate restoration of the facilities they previously enjoyed?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

I must refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave him yesterday.

Mr. LYLE-SAMUEL

In view of the fact that this most important service has been discontinued on grounds of national economy, will the right hon. Gentleman now consider the offer which has been made?

Mr. ILLINGWORTH

As soon as it is possible, of course, facilities will be restored, but I will ask the hon. Member to exercise a little patience as, up to the present, the conditions are practically the same as they were during the War. My anxiety is to restore all facilities at the earliest possible moment.