§ 49. Mr. McMasterasked the Postmaster-General what the rate of expansion has been since 1945 in the volume of business handled by main and branch post offices in Northern Ireland; and what the corresponding rate of increase in expenditure by the Post Office in improving and expanding main and branch post office facilities, respectively, has been during the same period.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterThe current volume of business is estimated to be some 15 per cent. less than in 1945. It is not possible to give comparable figures for the cost of providing counter services, but over the period we have increased the number of Crown Post Offices from 30 to 32, and have spent about £200,000 on improving the buildings and fittings.
§ 50. Mr. McMasterasked the Postmaster-General what plans he has for the improvement of postal services and local post office facilities in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterWe plan to build in the next few years seven new buildings in Northern Ireland, including a new Head Post Office in Belfast. So far as I am aware, the postal services generally are up to standard; but if the hon. Member has in mind any special point and will let me have details, I will gladly look into the matter.