HC Deb 21 May 1952 vol 501 cc465-6
38. Brigadier Medlicott

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he is aware of the waste of time caused to postmen and to members of the public generally by the large number of houses, offices and other buildings which have a name but no number; and if he will introduce legislation which will make it obligatory for a number to be included in the postal address of every property in a built-up area and to be shown on the entrance to the property itself.

Mr. Gammans

It is of course much easier for postmen, delivering letters, if all houses are numbered clearly, but my noble Friend has no power to insist on the numbering of houses. Such power rests with the local authorities, who in the experience of the Post Office are generally ready to co-operate when difficulties arise. If my hon. and gallant Friend has any particular case in mind, perhaps he would let me have particulars.

Brigadier Medlicott

Will my hon. Friend bear in mind that over 100,000 houses have no numbers, which is adding to the difficulties of the Post Office. Would he care to appeal to the public to help the Post Office in this matter? In so far as the question of social standing comes into it. is it not a fact that a number at the head of notepaper— for example "No. 10"— can be as imposing as "The Laurels" or "Sea View"?

Mr. Gammans

It is not so much the Post Office which is inconvenienced, because a postman on his regular walk gets to know where people live. It is the police and tradesmen and people calling at the house who are inconvenienced. But we have no authority whatever to make an Order in this matter.

Mr. Legh

Can my hon. Friend say whether or not local authorities have the power to number houses without the consent or wish of the residents?

Mr. Gammans

That question should be put down to the Minister of Housing and Local Government.

Mr. W. R. Williams

While I cannot agree with the Minister that a postman is not inconvenienced, though I will not go into that, in view of the fact that such a long time has elapsed since an appeal was made to the public to do what is asked by the hon. and gallant Member, may I ask the hon. Gentleman to consider making another appeal?

Mr. Gammans

It is not for the Post Office to make such an appeal.