§ 22. Mrs. Middletonasked the Postmaster-General during what hours telegrams are delivered in the village of Keynsham, Somerset; why telegrams are accepted for but not delivered in this village on Saturday afternoons; what steps are taken to inform senders that their telegrams will not be delivered until the following day; and, where no such information is given, what steps are taken to reimburse senders for the cost incurred.
§ Mr. Wilfred PalingTelegrams are delivered in Keynsham, Somerset, from 8.30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, including Saturdays, and from 9 a.m. to 10.30 a.m. on Sundays. If my hon. Friend can give me details of any telegram which should have been delivered on a Saturday afternoon but was held over until the following day, I shall be glad to make inquiries. If, when a telegram is handed in, there is clearly a risk that it may arrive too late at the distant office for delivery the same day, it is the practice to inform the sender that delivery may not be possible that day unless a telephonic address is used. The cost of any telegram will be refunded, on application to the Head Postmaster, if the telegram fails in its purpose through not being delivered the same day from any cause within the control of the Post Office.
§ Mrs. MiddletonIs my right hon. Friend aware that the hon. Member for the Sutton Division of Plymouth sent a telegram to her husband on 3rd January at 12.30 p.m. telling him of her arrival in the village at 7.30 p.m. that evening; that it was not delivered at all, but was pushed through the letter box of the house where he was staying at approximately 9 o'clock the next morning? Does that information coincide with what my right hon. Friend has just told the House?
§ Mr. PalingNot exactly, but I have indicated that, if my hon. Friend will let me have particulars, I will look into the matter.