HC Deb 13 December 1911 vol 32 cc2488-9W
Dr. ADDISON

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the Government's decision not to hold an inquiry into the grievances of the various classes of postal servants until 1913, and in view of the serious rise in the cost of living, he will take into consideration the nature of the effect of the aforesaid decision upon the case of the London postal porters, whose maximum wage has not been raised since 1882; and whether he will endeavour to make some arrangement whereby, pending the report of the Committee he proposes to appoint, those postal porters who by length of service have been entitled to the maximum wage for some time may be enabled to receive some additional pay?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

It has now been arranged for the inquiry to take place next Session.

Mr. GOULDING

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that at Worcester one established postman and one unestablished postman together were employed to substitute one sorting clerk and telegraphist for a period of thirteen weeks from 26th May till 12th August, inclusive, and 4th September till 16th September last; whether he is aware that during the major portion of that period an average of only six hours' overtime per day was performed by an available staff of thirty-seven male sorting clerks and telegraphists; and whether this procedure is in accordance with Departmental Regulations?

Mr. HERBERT SAMUEL

I am having inquiry made into this matter.