§ 63. Mr. HACKINGasked the Postmaster-General how many letters have been opened by the Post Office in connection with the Irish sweepstake on the Grand National race; and how much money has been returned to senders?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the HOME DEPARTMENT (Mr. Clynes)I have been asked to reply to this question. I regret that it would not be in the public interest for the information to be given.
§ Mr. HACKINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this information was given in connection with the last sweepstake?
§ Mr. CLYNESI am not aware of it.
§ Colonel ASHLEYWhat is the reason for withholding the information?
§ Mr. CLYNESFor the reason that it is giving information to those from whom it is most desirable to withhold it.
§ Mr. HACKINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Postmaster-General gave me the information in connection with the recent sweepstake in Dublin?
§ Mr. REMERIs it a fact that purely private letters, not in any way connected with the sweepstake, are being opened?
§ Mr. HANNONBy what rule does the Post Office draw the line in opening private correspondence? How are the officers of the Post Office instructed to deal with the opening of private correspondence?