§ Mr. JOYCEasked the Postmaster-General whether rural auxiliary postmen in Ireland are compelled to pay 3d. per week as a contribution to the National Health Insurance; and whether, in the case of those postmen whose wages are below 9s. per week, they will be placed in the same position as those in other employments who are free from payment when their wages are below 9s. per week?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELThe contribution payable by rural auxiliary postmen in Ireland is as stated. The hon. Member is under a misapprehension in supposing that these officers are treated differently from persons similarly situated in other employments. Although receiving in some instances less than 9s. per week, their employment under the Post Office is for part of the day only. The Act provides for a reduction in the rate of contribution only in cases where the rate of remuneration per working day does not exceed 2s. 6d., and this does not occur in the case of any of the officers in question.