HC Deb 19 February 1929 vol 225 cc944-5
38. Sir R. THOMAS

asked the Postmaster-General whether the newly-appointed postmaster at Llanfairpwl1g-wyngillgogerchwyrndrobialllandysiliogogo-goch, Anglesey, is in receipt of a service pension; and whether it is on account of his own ignorance of the Welsh language that Mr. Cripps has retained the services of a Wash-speaking assistant?

Lieut.-Colonel WATTS-MORGAN

Before the right hon. Gentleman replies. I want to draw his attention to the fact that the name is wrongly spelt in an important particular.

Mr. MARDY JONES

There are two syllables out of order.

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

I am aware that there is some doubt as to the precise spelling.

HON. MEMBERS

Pronounce it.

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

It begins with "Llanfair" and ends with "gogogoch." Perhaps with all this influenza about, I had better not attempt to pronounce it. Mr. Cripps has now given notice of his resignation from the position of sub-postmaster at the place named in the question in order to continue his service in the Navy. In making a fresh appointment full consideration will be given to the qualifications of Welsh-speaking candidates.

Sir R. THOMAS

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman, when he considers the appointment in future of a postmaster—[HON. MEMBERS: "Where for?"]—for LIanfairpwllgwyngillgogerchwyrndrobullllandysiliogogogoch—that he will at least appoint someone who can pronounce the name of the village in which he is occupied as postmaster?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

That, with other relative matters, will be taken into consideration.

Viscount SANDON

Does this word count one in a telegram?

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON indicated assent.