HC Deb 15 December 1948 vol 459 cc1189-90
13. Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is satisfied that his proposal for moving the Post Office Savings Bank to Sheffield can be achieved without inflicting serious hardship on a large proportion of the staff.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

Yes, Sir; though I recognise that there may be differing opinions as to what constitutes serious hardship. The move would be subject to the safeguards provided in the agreement between the official and staff sides of the Civil Service Whitley Council.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Can the right hon. Gentleman say what steps in particular will be taken to assist those members of the staff who at present have homes in the London area?

Mr. Paling

Naturally when one is going to make transfers or removals, housing accommodation is one of the prime considerations.

Mr. W. R. Williams

Is it not a fact that an immediate transfer on the lines suggested in the Question is not a possibility?

Mr. Paling

I do not think that it is likely to happen just yet anyway.