P.O. AND SAVINGS BANK.

Waikato Times, Volume 98, Issue 15314, 15 August 1923, Page 5

P.O. AND SAVINGS BANK.

A GREAT INSTITUTION

IMPORTANT ADVANCES.

ADDRESS BY THE MINISTER.

By Telegraph.—Press Association WELLINGTON, Tuesday.

The conference of delegates representing the Post and Telegraph Officers' Association was addressed by the Postmaster-General, Hon. J. G. Coates, to-day. The Minister referred in glowing terms to the growth of the department, which had become a hugo machine, the efficiency of which lay with the men who were responsible for the carrying out of the work. The department had advanced with the advance of the country, and they ought to look forward to even greater advances in the next four years. They would find the Post Office was handling almost everything which Ihe State handled. For instance, with regard to the persistent agitation for a State bank, there were requests for Ihe withdrawal of money deposited in the Post Office Savings Bank by cheque. If such requests were granted it would entail an even more efficient staff,,with still better training. The Savings Bank was really a huge banking concern, and they were endeavouring to bring about alterations in the 'System which would make it more like a real banking institution. When they remembered that the money deposited per head of population was £6O they could realise the magnitude of the business. Another important advance that would have to be considered waj wireless ! communication. After expressing the warmest appreciation of the late secretary, the Minister introduced Mr Markman, the new secretary, as a man of application and sound judgment required for such a position, who would hear them first frankly, and if they were not satisfied ik himself was ready lo receive them. Regarding the matters mentioned by the chairman, namely, compulsory retirement, classification and annual leave, Mr Markman would lay his cards on the table and discuss them directly with the association.

Mr Coates, in referring to the organ of the association, expressed tempered regret that there seemed to be a' tendency to resort to politics when things could not be gained through official channels. The conference (passed resolutions recommending "that .a better class of material, be used for all uniformed employees, and that the Railway Department be approached on the question of having the postal van attached to the Main Trunk train placed at the rear of the train.