§ Mr. EVELYN CECILasked the Postmaster-General whether he has yet been able to see his way to alter the character or design of the new postage stamps, as they continue to be criticised in many parts of the Empire as very unworthy specimens of British art and a bad likeness of His Majesty as reproduced in the printing?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELCertain changes in the engraving of the new penny stamp have been decided on. But as these changes entail the preparation of new master plates and working plates, it will not be possible to issue the improved stamps before January next.
Mr. KINGasked the Secretary to the Treasury when the new postage stamps of a higher value than 1d. will be issued?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. McKinnon Wood)It is proposed to issue the new 1½d., 2d., 2½d., and 3d. stamps about the commencement of the year, and those of the remaining values shortly afterwards.
Mr. KINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that by that time the King will have been on the Throne a year and three-quarters?
Mr. KINGasked whether the right hon. Gentleman is now satisfied that every possible improvement has been attained in the printing, adhesiveness, and other qualities of the new 1d. and ½d. stamps?
§ Mr. McKINNON WOODIt is proposed to issue greatly improved stamps of these denominations about the commencement of the year.