HC Deb 04 July 1951 vol 489 c2396

Motion made, and Question proposed, "That the Clause stand part of the Bill."

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

On Second Reading the right hon. Gentleman explained the later part of the Clause but, unless my recollection is at fault, he did not explain the first part, and state why, apparently, priority messages are no longer to be described as priority messages. I would not suggest that this was of earth-shaking constitutional importance, but I am a little curious to know why that practice has been discontinued, because it was one with which we are familiar.

Mr. Hobson

In point of fact it was discontinued some time ago because it was entirely impracticable.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

Am I to understand that it was not authorised but it was notorious that it was being done and in point of fact the Postmaster-General was aiding and abetting an illegality not permitted to his colleagues?

Question put, and agreed to.

Clause ordered to stand part of the Bill.