§ SIR SEYMOUR KING (Hull, Central)To ask the Postmaster-General whether the Indian mail was in the hands of the Post Office before 11 a.m. on Saturday, and why no letters were delivered in the City earlier than 1.30 p.m., or newspapers before 4.55 p.m., even in cases where special arrangements for the delivery of newspapers are in existence.
(Answered by Mr. Sydney Buxton.) on the occasion to which the hon. Member refers the Indian mail, which came to hand after 11 a.m., was exceptionally heavy, and, notwithstanding the employment of a large additional force, it was not possible to effect an earlier delivery. So far as the City was concerned the bulk of the letters were sent out by postmen who left the General Post Office between 12.45 and 1.20 p.m., and a number of them were delivered before 1.30. p.m. The hon. Member may rest assured that on occasions, such as the one under question, all possible steps are taken to ensure the delivery of the mails as soon as possible.