§ Sir F. FLANNERYasked the Post-master-General whether his attention has been called to the hardship of numerous Post Office employés who, after retirement, have been recalled to assist the Post Office work, thus releasing younger men for active service, who will now be compelled to pay higher rates for their season tickets on the railways to and from their work; and whether he can see his way to make special allowances towards the increased cost to such employé's of travelling to and from their work?
§ Mr. PEASEMy right hon. Friend regrets that he is unable to grant special allowances for the purpose suggested. He does not think it would be justifiable to relieve retired Post Office servants of the increased charges which fall on season ticket holders generally.
§ Captain BARNETTasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that for stations within the radius of 12 miles from Charing Cross Post Office 1003W the railway companies are in many cases increasing the price of season tickets on renewal by 20 per cent instead of 10 per cent.; and, if so, whether he will take steps to secure that the increased charges shall be. adjusted on the zone system rather than on a mileage basis?
§ Mr. WARDLEThe radius of 12 miles from Charing Cross applies only to applications for renewal of season tickets or issue of new tickets, and has nothing to do with the amount of the increase in charge. This depends on the distance of the journey for which the ticket is issued, and applies throughout the country, and this, in my opinion, is the fairest method of dealing with the matter.