asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if, in view of the proposed increased postal charges, he proposes to take positive measures to improve postal delivery services in rural areas; and if, in the event of the introduction of motorisation, he will state what safeguards he has in view to provide against redundancy amongst rural post office workers.

Postal delivery services generally, including those in rural areas, are under continuous review to ensure that a satisfactory standard of service is maintained and that such improvements as are practicable are made. Motorisation is introduced only on the occurrence of vacancies and the question of redundancy of permanent staff does not arise. The only staff displaced by motorisation are temporary short-service employees.