HC Deb 07 April 1936 vol 310 c2606
70. Major MILNER

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction of the public and the Post Office officials with the quality of the gum in use on postage and insurance stamps; and whether he will arrange for a more adhesive gum and one less susceptible to climatic conditions to be provided in future?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir Walter Womersley)

I am not aware of any general dissatisfaction with the gum used for postage and insurance stamps. The gum on postage stamps is required to be pure gum arable, and it is regularly tested both for quality and quantity to ensure that the standard required of the contractors is maintained.

Major MILNER

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the Leeds branch of the Association of Sub-Postmasters is of the opinion that the gum is not good, and will the hon. Gentleman himself have a test made?

Sir W. WOMERSLEY

I have seen reports in the Press that the Leeds sub-postmasters are not satisfied with the quality of the gum. We have had inquiries made and we are satisfied. One of the complaints is that the gum is not very nice to taste.

Mr. G. GRIFFITHS

Is it the fact that the Government became unstuck last Wednesday night?