§ Mr. MACMASTERasked the Postmaster-General whether he will take steps to provide for the improvement of the quality of the material of which the postage stamps now in general use are composed?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Masterman)The paper at present used in the manufacture of postage stamps is of the same quality as that which has been obtained for this purpose for many years past. A new contract is about to be placed, and due care will be taken to ensure that the material supplied under it is of good quality.
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINEMay I ask why the new penny stamp has been altered, and what is the cost of the alteration?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI should like notice of that question.
§ Mr. KINGasked the Secretary to the Treasury the reason for the delay in issuing the new postage stamps of a higher value than one penny; and whether he can give an approximate date for their appearance?
§ Mr. MASTERMANOwing to the preparation of a new effigy of the King, which it is proposed to substitute for that at present in use, it has not yet been possible to place on sale George V. postage stamps of a higher denomination than one penny, but it is hoped that the issue will begin in a few weeks.