§ 23. Mr. CLEARYasked the Postmaster-General whether he will consider making a contribution to the finances of the Mersey tunnel undertaking in view of the fact that his Department, who previously paid £2,000 per annum for conveyance of mails via the Mersey Railway and £200 per annum to the Birkenhead Corporation ferry steamers, now conveys mails free of all charge through the Mersey tunnel, the total value of which free service from 18th July, 1934, to 30th April, 1935, was £2, 434 6s. 9d., and also bearing in mind that any contribution would be welcome relief to the ratepayers of Liverpool and Birkenhead, who have to pay over £2,000,000 increase on the original estimate of £5,000,000 for the cost of the Mersey tunnel?
§ Sir K. WOODI regret that I do not see my way to grant a contribution from Post Office funds for the purpose mentioned.
§ Mr. CLEARYWould the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to receive a deputation from the Mersey Tunnel Joint Committee if they decide on such a course?
§ Sir K. WOODI think I had better await their request. If the hon. Gentleman would like to have a word with me, I should be pleased to discuss the matter with him.