§ Mr. J. P. FARRELLasked the Postmaster-General whether any decision has yet been come to in the matter of granting increased payment to sub-postmasters of districts of considerable area who, in addition to the duties of their own office, have to employ and pay competent clerks and telegraphists out of the small salaries at present paid to them?
§ Mr. SYDNEY BUXTONSub-postmasters do not in any circumstances control a subordinate area, and have no post office duties to provide for beyond those of their own office. Except in the case of certain large offices, where the sub-postmasters are remunerated on the head office system, and the staff are paid by the Department, payment is made in accord-386W ance with a scale approved by the Parliamentary Committee, which is intended to cover the cost of any assistance that may be required for Post Office work. It is not in contemplation to alter this system.