§ Mr. CURRANasked the Postmaster-General whether the present rate of wages paid to adult night messengers was fixed by the Select Committee on the basis of the evidence submitted to it; whether the departmental witness acknowledged that the sole work of adult night messengers was the delivery of telegrams and express letters and parcels; whether these messengers are now to be compelled to perform other ditties as well, including the duties of trained cycle mechanics, for which they have not the requisite practical knowledge; and whether he will favourably consider the withdrawal of his recent circular to surveyors extending the duties of these messengers?
§ Mr. BUXTONThe Select Committee considered the case of the adult night messengers and fixed the pay of the class. These men are employed for the purpose of delivering telegrams; but I think it is very desirable that during the periods of waiting for messages they should be employed on indoor work of a simple character, instead of sitting idle. The hon. Member is mistaken in thinking that work proper to trained cycle mechanics is given to the men.