HC Deb 20 June 1938 vol 337 cc693-4
43. Mr. Kelly

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the East-bourne Town Council decided to recommend that the postmen in their area should be given a weekly half-holiday; that the postmaster, in reply, stated that he had received objections to the recommendation and therefore did not propose to carry it out; and that the town council thereupon decided, by a substantial majority, to reaffirm their previous decision; and whether, in view of the fact that some years ago the half-holiday was taken away on the recommendation of the town council, he will give instructions that the recommendation of the responsible local authority to restore it shall be adopted?

The Assistant Postmaster-General (Sir Walter Womersley)

I am aware of the circumstances referred to by the hon. Member, but it is not the practice to act on such a recommendation if, as is the case at Eastbourne, there is evidence of public opposition.

Mr. Kelly

Will the hon. Gentleman give further consideration to this matter, in view of the fact that there is a large volume of opinion in favour of it?

Sir W. Womersley

I will certainly give further consideration to it, but so far the volume of public opinion has been the other way.

Mr. Attlee

On the previous occasion when the half-holiday was taken away, was there not opposition to that?

Sir W. Womersley

No; when the half-holiday was taken away it was on the recommendation of the council, supported by commercial interests and other influential organisations.

Mr. Gallacher

What about the mass of the people?

Sir W. Womersley

There was a small amount of opposition, but it was only very small.