§ Mr. FARRELLasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that, in consequence of the influenza epidemic in rural Ireland, most of the deliveries of letters are late and some do not take place at all on the day of arrival; and if he will arrange for the temporary employment of assistants to relieve those who are victims of the epidemic?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHAll possible steps have been taken to obtain substitutes, but in a few instances temporary suspension of delivery has been unavoidable. The local controlling officers of the Post Office have full powers to engage temporary substitutes, if obtainable, whenever members of the regular staff are away.