§ 37. Sir C. CAYZERasked the Postmaster-General whether in connection with the existing Post Office regulations which permit of the cancellation of a telegram by the sender after it has been handed in, he has considered the possibility of dishonest persons using this regulation in order to defraud bookmakers and turf commission agents; and whether he will consider the desirability of rescinding this regulation?
§ Sir K. WOODI have considered this possibility and have made careful inquiries. I find that the number of betting telegrams cancelled is negligible, and I should not, on present information, feel justified in depriving the public of their right to cancel telegrams after handing in. The matter will, however, be kept under review, and I shall be prepared to take appropriate action if there is clear evidence of the need for a change in the existing regulations.
§ Commander MARSDENWould it not be better, when a telegram is cancelled, that some information should be sent to the would-be recipient of the telegram? The information need not be actually disclosed.
§ Sir K. WOODThere are few cases of this kind. In September there were only 4, in October 6, and in November and December 1.
§ Commander MARSDENBut have there not been convictions of people taking advantage of that clause?
§ Sir K. WOODThat may be so, but I should hesitate to deprive the public of this right in these very few cases.