HC Deb 29 July 1953 vol 518 c1278
20. Captain Orr

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General for what reason the term "delivery officer" is being used increasingly in official correspondence; and if he will give an assurance that there is no intention of doing away with the respected designation of "postman."

Mr. Gammans

It is true that the term "delivery officer" is sometimes used in official correspondence, but it is not in place of the term "postman" which since its introduction in the last century, has been respected by the public and the staff alike. I can assure my hon. and gallant Friend that I have no ambition to be known as Her Majesty's Assistant "Deliverymaster-General."

Captain Orr

Is my hon. Friend aware that his answer will help to mitigate the resentment felt by all who abhor this type of bureaucratic terminological pomposity? Can he assure us that neither he nor anyone in his Department will indulge during the Recess in the ancient game of "Delivery Officer's Knock"?