HC Deb 27 January 1954 vol 522 cc1735-6
8. Captain Ryder

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General if he is aware that in certain parts of Merton and Morden the earliest postal delivery does not arrive until 9.30 a.m.; and whether he will take steps to effect an improvement.

Mr. Gammans

The first delivery of letters in Merton and Morden should normally be completed by 9.15 a.m., but there have been periods this winter when abnormal absence of the regular postmen owing to sickness has caused some delay. We are trying to avoid delays of this sort, but if my hon. and gallant Friend will let me have particulars of any special cases that have come to his notice I will make inquiry.

Captain Ryder

Does my hon. Friend not think that 9.15 is very late for the first delivery, and will he also bear in mind that in the same areas, so I am told, the second and only other delivery takes place at about 11.30? Is it not very unsatisfactory to have those two deliveries so close together?

Mr. Gammans

The first delivery should be completed, not started, by 9.15, but, for the reason which I have given, it has been impossible on several occasions during the winter to maintain that standard.

Mr. W. R. Williams

Will the Assistant Postmaster-General tell us what time this particular postman started in the morning?

Mr. Gammans

I do not know to which particular postman the hon. Gentleman refers.

Mr. Williams

I should have thought that before the Assistant Postmaster-General answered his hon. and gallant Friend he would know what he was talking about. I want to know what time the postman on this round started?

Mr. Gammans

The hon. Gentleman has asked a general question. I am afraid I cannot give him the answer.