HC Deb 07 May 1947 vol 437 c433
68. Mr. Keeling

asked the Postmaster-General whether he intends to make any further contraction of postal collections and deliveries in Greater London.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

I have already informed the hon. Member, that it is not the intention to restore the 7.30 p.m. and 9 p.m. collections in London, which were suspended during the recent fuel crisis. It has also been decided not to restore the 7 p.m. delivery which was similarly suspended. In future there will be three deliveries in London, with a final delivery commencing at about 3–3.30 p.m., and a final collection at 6–6.30 p.m. In the area contiguous to London, the 8–8.30 p.m. collection will be withdrawn, and the number of deliveries will be reduced to two.

Lieut.-Commander Braithwaite

Will the Postmaster-General give us a reason for the reductions?

Mr. Paling

The hon. and gallant Member knows there is a shortage of manpower in the country, and we have been asked to make our contribution towards this problem.

Mr. Keeling

I beg to give notice that I shall draw attention to this and other postal deficiencies on the Adjournment on Monday next.