§ 41. Sir H. Williamsasked the Post master-General whether his attention has been drawn to the late deliveries of mail 200 in the West End of London, in particular, in the Westminster area; whether he is aware that in some parts of Regent Street, on 19th March, the mail normally delivered about 8.45 a.m. was not delivered until 11.30 a.m.; and if he can furnish an explanation for this.
§ The Postmaster-General (Mr. Ness Edwards)I much regret that heavy sick absence, particularly on 19th March, together with a re-organisation of postmen's duties has caused delay in completing the first delivery in the districts in question.
§ Sir H. WilliamsDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think that a first delivery at 11.30 in the morning is really too bad, in spite of those circumstances?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsI quite agree. On the other hand, the hon. Gentleman cannot blame the Post Office because postmen are sick. I agree that it has gone on long enough, and I will look into it myself.
§ Mr. J. Langford-HoltIs the right hon. Gentleman not aware that for many months it has been the practice of business houses in this part of London to collect their mail because the first delivery is too late?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThat is a standing practice throughout the country. It is nothing unusual for business houses to collect their mail.
§ Sir H. WilliamsIs it not the fact that the Post Office have had an extensive reorganisation of walks, which has nothing to do with influenza?
§ Mr. Ness EdwardsThe re-organisation of duties was due entirely to the later collection, which was pressed for from all sides of the House.