HC Deb 30 June 1948 vol 452 cc2186-7
11. Mr. Touche

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that a cable addressed to the Council Offices, Dorking, from the Mayor of Rangiora, Canterbury, New Zealand, asking for the names of 100 Dorking people to whom food parcels could be sent, was wrongly delivered to the Council Offices, Barking, who promptly replied, with the result that the food parcels were sent to Barking and not to Dorking; and what reparation he proposes to make to the people of Dorking.

The Postmaster-General (Mr. Wilfred Paling)

A mistake was made in the transmission of the telegram to this country and the office of destination appeared as "Borking." As there is no such place in this country, the receiving telegraphist should have sought a correction from New Zealand; but unfortunately, though not unnaturally, he jumped to the conclusion that the telegram was intended for Barking. I sincerely regret the mistake; but I am glad to say that the people of Dorking will receive their food parcels, and the New Zealand senders with characteristic generosity are sending parcels to Barking also. The question of reparation does not arise.

Mr. Touche

Is the Minister aware that the cable was addressed, "Chairman, Council, Dorking," and that it was delivered addressed, "Chapman, Council, Barking"? There were two mistakes, and will he not consider some compensation in view of the fact that many mistakes are made now that Cable and Wireless has been nationalised?

Mr. Paling

My information is that the mistake was that which I have read out.

Mr. Wilson Harris

Did the telegraphist forget Bocking, which seems to have some reason to feel aggrieved?