§ 28 and 30. Major GLYNasked the Postmaster-General (1) what is the annual charge paid out of the Post Office revenue for salaries and wages of the engineering staff of the General Post Office engaged in outdoor work; and how does this figure compare with 1922 and 1913;
2129 (2) into how many engineering districts the country is divided for the maintenance of the telephone and telegraph services; how many men are employed on outdoor work in each of the districts; and how do these numbers compare with those employed in 1922 and 1913?
§ Viscount WOLMERThere are 15 engineering districts. It is not practicable to give separately the numbers or the pay of the staff employed on outdoor work, as many of the men concerned are engaged on both outdoor and indoor duties.
§ Major GLYNIn the present financial situation of the country, is the Postmaster-General of the opinion that we are getting value for money as regards the number of men employed and the work accomplished?
§ Viscount WOLMERYes.
§ Colonel DAYHow do the figures compare with 1922 and 1913, as asked in the question?
§ Viscount WOLMERI can only give the total figures, which I shall be glad to do if the hon. Member so desires.
§ Colonel DAYDo they show an increase or a decrease?
§ Viscount WOLMERA large increase over 1913 and 1922.
§ Mr. HARDIEMay I ask if the hon. and gallant Member for Abingdon (Major Glyn) thinks that the London, Midland, and Scottish Railway might be able to manage the engineering side of the Post Office better than is being done now?