To ask the Postmaster General whether the sorting-office accommodation and the retiring rooms at the South-Eastern district office are inadequate for the efficient performance of postal duties as well as for the requirements of the staff; and, if so, when he intends to commence building new offices on the neighbouring premises, which were acquired by the Department two years ago, and are now unused except as a cloak room and standing place for cycles. (Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) It is recognised that the accommodation at the South-Eastern District Office calls for improvement. More relief, however, is being obtained by the use of the adjoining premises than appears to be understood by the hon. Member, and I am considering whether still further use cannot be made of them with advantage. Plans for the permanent enlargement of the office have already been prepared, but they will require a good deal of consideration, and I can hardly say at present when building operations are likely to be begun.
MR. WILES