(by Private Notice) asked the Postmaster-General whether a ballot has just been taken among 107,049 employés of the Post Office who are members of the Union of Post Office Workers on the question of whether a strike policy should be adopted by the union and a strike fund created; whether 48,157 employés voted in favour of a strike policy and for the creation of a strike fund, and 35,411 against, being a Majority in favour of the above proposal of 12,746, no ballot papers being returned by 23,481; whether he is aware that the above result is to be considered by the executive of the union on 8th December, in order to decide upon further action; and whether he will see that an intimation is communicated to the executive of the union before that date indicating that persons in the Government service cannot be permitted to hold up the community by means of a strike against a decision of the Government who represent the elected representatives of the people of the country?

I believe the facts are as stated by my hon. Friend. It is not considered necessary to make any communication in the sense suggested.

Does not my right hon. Friend consider that a very serious position has now arisen, in that the Majority of the union have expressed their desire to form a striking union with a strike fund, and, having regard to the fact that the Government forbade the Police Force to form a striking union, does he not think it is high time for the Government to take some action.

Send for the Black and Tans.

I regret that this resolution of the Post Office employés should have been passed. The answer I have given represents the considered policy of the Government.

Is it the considered policy of the Government to allow Government servants to go on strike?