§ Sir C. CAYZERasked the Postmaster-General the towns throughout the country with populations over 5,000 in which the first delivery of letters does not take place until after 8.30 a.m.; and whether, in view of the fact that many business men have to leave home before this hour, he will consider making arrangements whereby deliveries generally shall be completed by 8 a.m.?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONA special investigation, entailing considerable labour, would be required in order to obtain the information for which the hon. Baronet asks. It is the normal arrangement in town districts, large and small, for the first delivery to commence-about 7 a.m. and to be completed at the latest about 9 a.m.; but it is usually completed by 8.30 a.m. or soon after in important residential areas near large cities. A general completion by 8 a.m. or even 8.30 a.m. would call for a large increase in the present staff, and I regret that I am unable to consider the proposal at the present time.