§ 14. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Postmaster-General if he will give the reasons for changing the venue of the sub-post office, Cowbridge Road, Cardiff, in view of the fact that a recent inspection report considered the present premises adequate and convenient.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsAs I have explained in recent correspondence with my hon. Friend, the vacancy for the sub-postmastership in this case was advertised according to normal Post Office practice, and the best qualified candidate appointed. Apart from the question of personal qualifications, the premises offered by the successful candidate, which are within 25 yards of the former sub-post office, provide slightly more accommodation for Post Office purposes.
§ Mr. ThomasIs my right hon. Friend aware that there has had to be a substantial alteration to the new premises to make them suitable for Post Office purposes; and that since the available premises have been used as a post office for 50 years? Can he justify changing the site, especially in view of the public petition presented?
§ 15. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Postmaster-General if he will give the total cost involved in opening new premises for the sub-post office at Cowbridge Road, Cardiff.
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThe total cost to the Post Office is estimated at £25.
§ Sir H. WilliamsWould not that £25 have been useful in providing telephones in Wimbledon?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsI would say that the expenditure of £25 ought not to exclude an ex-Service man from his opportunity.