HC Deb 13 June 1912 vol 39 c1059
86. Mr. COWAN

asked the Postmaster-General whether letters intended for Melbourne, Australia, are frequently sent to Melbourne in Derbyshire or to Melbourne in Yorkshire; and whether, considering the comparative unimportance of these two places, he will give directions that all letters addressed "Melbourne," without any further indication of locality, shall be sent to Melbourne in the State of Victoria?

Captain NORTON

A letter addressed to "Melbourne" without further indication of locality would be sent in ordinary course to Melbourne, Derbyshire, or Melbourne, Yorkshire. In the case of a letter intended for either of these places the course suggested by the hon. Member would result in delay amounting to more than nine weeks as a minimum, while in the case of a letter intended for Melbourne, Australia, the delay arising from the present practice would rarely amount to as many days. I am not prepared to alter the existing practice.