asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs whether, in view of the uneasiness created among those whose money was invested through the Newport Post Office by reason of the defalcations committed there, he is now prepared to make a statement as to whether his Department will make good the losses stated to have been incurred.

I am not at present in a position to make a statement as to whether the losses stated to have been incurred by the defalcations of the Sub-Postmistress, Newport, will be made good.

The cases in question, which have involved extensive enquiries, are still under investigation, but it is hoped to reach a decision shortly.

I am sure the Parliamentary Secretary is aware that I have had several communications from his Department already to the same effect within the past seven or eight months. I am sure he must also be aware that the people whose investments are being considered in this protracted way for so many months must be very uneasy, and it is up to him to see that the Department will speed up this matter and have it decided one way or the other.

I am aware that various representations have been made on behalf of the persons concerned, but I am also aware that this is a very involved case, and that we are examining into the case as expeditiously as possible. I promise the Deputy that a decision will be come to at the earliest possible moment.

I can assure the Parliamentary Secretary that those concerned have been very uneasy for many months past, with the result that they have got me to write to the Department on several occasions.