§ 30. Mr. Boothasked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the letter sent to him by the Dalton and District Owner Occupiers Association, he will inquire into the extent to which people have to wait to be served in the Dalton Crown Office; and if he will maintain and improve the service provided by this post office.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterA recent inspection showed that even at busy times no one wanted longer than 3½ minutes. For most people there was practically no waiting. We shall do all we can to maintain a good standard of service.
§ Mr. BoothWill the hon. Gentleman state what justification there can be for the proposed closure of Dalton Post Office, in view of the increasing demand for its services? Will he give an undertaking that in the event of this proposal being implemented, no full-time employee will lose his job?
§ Mr. SlaterWe have to provide services as economically as possible, and we 1622 cannot afford to retain a Crown Office where the standard of service can be given as efficiently and more economically on an angency basis. I can assure my hon Friend that no permanent employee will lose his job.