HC Deb 02 May 1951 vol 487 cc1153-4
2. Mr. Wills

asked the Postmaster-General whether he will take steps to enable parents of children in whose name an amount greater than £100 is deposited in the Post Office Savings Bank to withdraw that money, in the event of the death of the child, without the necessity for the production of a grant of letters of administration.

The Postmaster-General (Mr. Ness Edwards)

No, Sir. I could not recommend a change in the general law to provide for the comparatively few cases which occur in the Post Office. The Savings Department will, however, continue to give all the necessary help in such cases.

Mr. Wills

In view of the changed value of money and the expense and time involved in obtaining a grant of letters of administration, will not the right hon. Gentleman amend the sum of £100 to £500, which is the maximum yearly deposit with the Post Office Savings Bank?

Mr. Ness Edwards

A similar matter to this was raised only a few weeks ago when the Chancellor of the Exchequer undertook to examine the whole question of money belonging to minors. This question had better go to him.

Mr. Turton

Can we be told when a decision will be reached on the question of the withdrawal of money belonging to minors?

Mr. Ness Edwards

That question had better be put to the Chancellor, because he is dealing with the matter.