§ Mr. AMMONasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that many London sub-postmasters hold a number of town sub-offices under contract with his Department, and that it is the practice of such sub-postmasters to canvass regularly amongst business firms for the transfer of Post Office work from Crown offices to their own private establishments: whether such canvassing takes place with his knowledge and consent, and whether, having regard to the extremely low rates of pay which are received by sub-office assistants, he will take steps to prevent such a transfer of work from the post offices maintained by his Department to the sub-offices of the contractors?
§ Mr. KELLAWAYThere is a small number of sub-postmasters in London who hold appointments at more than one sub-office. I am not aware that it is the practice in such cases for them to canvass amongst business firms in the manner suggested, and I shall be glad to receive any evidence which the hon. Member can put before me. Such canvassing is forbidden by the terms of their appointment. and suitable measures are taken in any cases in which infringement of this condition is brought to notice.