asked the Postmaster-General what steps he is taking to provide a new post office and telephone service for the town of Gillingham, Dorset; whether he is aware that the plans for the said post office were under consideration by his Department as long ago as October, 1911, and that repeated answers have been given, both to letters and to a deputation, that the matter was receiving attention; and whether, under these circumstances, he can promise immediate action?

The need for a new post office at Gillingham, Dorset, has long been recognised, but the case has presented considerable difficulties. The proposals to which the hon. Member refers were laid before the Treasury in the latter part of last year, but, in view of certain defects attaching to the site that was offered, they did not see their way to authorise the scheme. Fresh proposals, however, which include accommodation for a telephone exchange, are now being submitted to them, and, if the scheme meets with their approval, I have every hope that building operations will be begun in the course of the present calendar year. Au exchange will be opened when the new building is ready if the support then available or in prospect justifies it financially.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the constant deferment of the provision of a new post office and telephone service at Gillingham has caused great inconvenience at that end of both Dorset and Wilts?

I am hoping that these matters may now be dealt with at an early date.