32. Mr. TYSON WILSONasked the Postmaster-General whether, before it was decided to abolish the collection, despatch, and delivery of letters on Sundays, the members of the Post Office staff who will be affected by the decision were consulted; and why, seeing that the wages and rates of pension of certain of the officials will be reduced by the decision, was not the Post Office Whitley Council consulted in the matter?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Kellaway)The abolition of Sunday posts was decided upon by the Cabinet, in view of the vital necessity of restricting public expenditure. I do not think the question whether the maintenance of specific public services is under present conditions financially justifiable is one which comes within the purview of the Post Office Whitley Council. I have, however, agreed that the staff shall have an opportunity of discussing any points of detail arising out of the application of that decision, should they so desire.
Dr. MURRAYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that I suggested this solution to the Postmaster-General last year with a view to arriving at a daily mail service where this is not already provided?