HC Deb 19 April 1950 vol 474 cc132-3
65. Mr. Crouch

asked the Postmaster-General if he will have stamp machines fitted beside all letter boxes in villages that have electricity but have no post office.

Mr. Ness Edwards

In view of the difficulties of maintenance and replenishment it is necessary to consider cases individually, but I shall be ready to examine any particular instance which the hon. Member may have in mind.

Mr. Crouch

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the large number of valuable hours that are wasted by' the agricultural community in waiting to purchase stamps; and does he not agree that people in the countryside are entitled to the same amenities as those enjoyed in the cities?

Mr. Ness Edwards

In rural areas postmen carry stamps with them, which may be purchased on their rounds. We cannot put stamp machines in places where the demand is so small that the stamps stick together before they are called for.

Mr. Crouch

I said "in villages that have electricity."