§ 41. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that a citizen in Newport tendered a £1 Treasury note at the general post office about noon on 7th April for the despatch of a telegram; that the attendant refused to accept the telegram on the ground that no change was available; that the offer to leave the £1 note and return for the change later was also refused; and what steps are being taken to remedy this grievance.
§ Mr. Wilfred PalingYes, Sir, and I have already expressed my apologies to the citizen in question. With the present shortage of silver coin, a good deal of local initiative has to be used to make ends meet. I regret that the action taken in this case was misguided and suitable instructions have been given to prevent repetition.
§ Mr. FreemanIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is a frequent occurrence at some post offices all over the country to say that no change is given? In view of the fact that the whole of the business of the post office is conducted on the basis of cash transactions—the post office is one of the largest bankers—could these reasonable facilities be provided to meet the demands of the ordinary citizens?
§ Mr. PalingI have already stated that I have given instructions so that this incident will not be repeated.
§ Lieut.-Commander BraithwaiteCan the Postmaster-General say to whom this telegram was addressed? Was it handed in prior to the Italian elections?
§ Mr. GallacherWill the Minister consider the case of a friend of mine in Paisley who tendered a 10s. note for the purchase of a stamp. My friend was refused the stamp on the ground that there was no change. Because of this the posting of an important letter was held up?
§ Mr. W. R. WilliamsIs it not a fact that post offices all over the country are 1258 suffering from a serious shortage of silver and that, until this matter has been settled with the Treasury, difficulties of the kind enumerated in the Question are bound to arise, and that the staff have no option in the matter?