HC Deb 14 March 1951 vol 485 cc1522-3
21. Sir Wavell Wakefield

asked the Postmaster-General what steps he is taking to improve the first post deliveries in the St. Marylebone area, in view of the wasted time and inefficiency caused to business firms by the present late deliveries.

26. Mr. Deedes

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that early posts in the Piccadilly and St. James's districts of London have recently been delivered to business and private addresses as late as 10 a.m.; and what action he proposes to take to improve this service.

Mr. Hobson

My right hon. Friend regrets that abnormal sickness and a reorganisation of postmen's duties has led to some delay in completing the first delivery in the districts in question. The position should rapidly improve as the postmen become accustomed to their new rounds, and it is hoped that completion of the delivery by the recognised time will shortly be effected.

Sir W. Wakefield

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there has been very grave dislocation of business owing to the very late deliveries to business firms in this area? Will he try to expedite matters and to ensure that early deliveries are resumed and maintained so that efficiency in business houses may be maintained?

Mr. Hobson

Yes, Sir, we will keep a close watch on that. The latest report I have is that there has been a considerable improvement. The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that this reorganisation is being undertaken in order to secure a better and more efficient service, and I am convinced that, as a result of the reorganisation. that will ensue.

Mr. Deedes

Can the hon. Gentleman tell us what the hour of the early delivery is supposed to be, and what it will be when the reorganisation is complete?

Mr. Hobson

Not without notice, but it will compare with deliveries in other parts of the London area.

Mr. Keeling

Can the Assistant Postmaster-General say whether or not the Communist cell which, some years ago, existed in the Western District Office in St. Marylebone, and which, as I was informed by the Post Office, was delaying the sorting of letters, has been eliminated?

Mr. Hobson

I am not aware that there has been any delay for that reason at all. The delay is entirely due to the reallocation and reorganisation of the postmen's walks.

Mr. Erroll

Are not the later deliveries the result of the late evening collections?

Mr. Hobson

The later evening collection will affect the St. Marylebone area in exactly the same way as any other parts of London where there is an evening collection.