§ Sir WILLIAM BULLasked the Postmaster-General how many persons other than those of English birth now hold positions as postmasters or sub-postmasters; whether, in view of the importance of avoiding any possibility of the interruption of the telegraphic communications, he will terminate any such appointments, as now exist, without delay; whether he can see his way to give any assurance that no further appointments of such a nature shall be made; whether he is aware that the telegraphic communications in a small area adjoining a part of the Yorkshire coast are now entirely controlled by postmasters and sub-postmasters all of German birth; and who is responsible for sanctioning the appointments?
§ Mr. SYDNEY BUXTONMost of the postmasters in Scotland and Ireland are not of English birth; but I am unable to give the numbers. I may add that foreigners are not now eligible for appointment to any permanent and established position in the Post Office; and they would not be selected for any situation for which suitable British subjects are avail- 201W able. The hon. Member will, of course, let me have particulars of the cases to which he refers.