§ 39. Mr. DAYasked the Postmaster-General the number of stamp-obliterating machines at present in use by his Department; whether these machines are still being manufactured by Norwegian and American firms; and will he give particulars of the cost of these machines?
§ Mr. LEES-SMITHThe total number of stamp-obliterating machines in use by the Department is 636, all of which were manufactured by Norwegian and American firms. The prices quoted by contractors are regarded as confidential and I regret therefore I cannot give the particulars of the cost of the machines.
§ Mr. DAYHas the hon. Gentleman made any attempt to see whether these could be provided by British firms?
§ Mr. LEES-SMITHBoth I and my predecessor have personally, and through the Federation of British Industries, attempted to persuade British firms to make these machines, but we have not been successful.