§ Sir WILLIAM BULLasked the Postmaster-General at whose instance and by whose advice a decision has been made to-close the post office on Kew Green; what loss, if any, was shown in the balance-sheet of this post office during the three years preceding the War; whether he is aware that much inconvenience will be caused by the closing of that office to caterers, shopkeepers, and other residents around Kew Green and in the vicinity; and if, before finally deciding to close the office, he will take steps to consult the opinion and wishes of the people in the neighbourhood?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe late sub-postmistress resigned on the 9th of March, and every effort has since been made, without success, to find a suitable person willing to undertake the duties. Meanwhile the office has been kept open exceptionally at heavy expense for rent and staff. This arrangement I should not to justified in continuing any longer, even if it were possible to do so, and I have, therefore, had no alternative but to give instructions for the closing of the office at an early date. I recognise with regret the inconvenience caused to residents in the neighbourhood, and I can assure the hon. Member that an office will be opened in the vicinity as soon as a suitable candidate can be found.