Mr. JOHN HOPEasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that negotiations are in process to erect a new post office in Duns, and that several families have received notice to leave their houses which are to be converted into the new post office; and whether, in view of the present serious shortage of houses, he will give an assurance either that the post office will be continued in its present position or that some vacant site will be chosen?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHThe present post office at Duns is inadequate, and is held on a very precarious tenancy. Provision has accordingly been made in the draft Estimates for the current financial year for proceeding with the erection of a new post office on a site specially acquired for that purpose in 1915. Pending commencement of the building operations (which have been deferred as long as possible), the three houses on the site have been let. One of the tenants has already secured another house. I always endeavour to exercise as much consideration towards tenants in such cases as is consistent with the needs of the public service, and possession of the houses will not be taken till the circumstances render it necessary. The suggestion that some other site be selected could not be entertained.