HC Deb 04 April 1922 vol 152 cc2026-7
67. Major GLYN

asked the Postmaster-General how many horse-drawn vehicles and how many motor mail vans are used for the conveyance of mails in the London postal area; whether the mails are more quickly and cheaply delivered by horse-drawn vans; whether the contractor has any inducement to bring the method of transportation up to date; and whether postmen are sent with special late fee letters in horsed hansom cabs to certain London termini?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Six hundred and thirty-three horse-drawn vans and 95 motor vans are at present in use by the contractors for the conveyance of mails in the London postal area. The class of van used depends upon the kind of service to be performed, and upon such factors as waiting time and empty mile- age. The method of transportation is subject to review when the contracts are renewed. There is no service by postmen in horsed hansom cabs between post offices and the London railway stations.

Major GLYN

Is it the intention of the Postmaster-General to have an inquiry made as to the relative cost of horse transport and motor transport?

Mr. KELLAWAY

Yes, Sir; that inquiry has been going on for some time.