HC Deb 16 August 1871 vol 208 cc1738-9
MR. MACFIE

asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether he has considered the suggestion that Postmasters in general should be made vendors of Stamps?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER

I have considered the Question, and I do not think it desirable to adopt such a course as that suggested, because I believe that it will introduce great complexity in the transaction of business relating to stamps; will place the Revenue in some danger, and create great additional cost to the department. The Government authorities, in the event of the adoption of the course proposed, would have to issue a large quantity of stamps in certain neighbourhoods where the postmasters would probably be unable to dispose of them, and therefore would not to able to pay for them.