asked the Postmaster-General how many assistant clerks in the Post Office are now performing duties of a higher character than those usually allotted to the class; and whether it is intended to grant special allowances to these men as has been done in similar circumstances in other Government Departments?

The number of assistant clerks in the Post Office now performing duties of a higher character than those usually allotted to the class is about thirty-five. I understand that allowances have been granted in other Departments in certain cases where the amount of extra responsibility is very considerable, and the question whether any duties in the. Post Office warrant such allowances is under inquiry.