HC Deb 11 December 1957 vol 579 cc1258-9
47. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Postmaster-General what interest was shown by the building trade and the general public in the Post Office exhibit of larger letter-boxes at the recent building exhibition.

Mr. K. Thompson

I am glad to say that some 2,000 specific inquiries were made by architects, builders, municipal officials, and the general public. It was the universal opinion among inquirers that the larger letter-plate openings would be of great help, both to the public and the Post Office.

48. Mr. Gresham Cooke

asked the Postmaster-General what further efforts will be made to emphasise the importance of business and professional people having commercial size letter-boxes at their residences as well as their offices; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. K. Thompson

We propose to embark upon a publicity campaign for the use of larger letter plates, at residences as well as offices, by poster, film, press advertising and exhibition, in the spring of 1958, when it is expected that supplies of the new letter plates, conforming to the new standard, will be generally available from the manufacturers. We are also seeking the co-operation of builders, architects and local authorities.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

In this campaign, will my hon. Friend publicise the fact that there are many technical magazines and other magazines, such as The Director, which do not go through the ordinary size domestic letter-box?

Mr. Bence

Too many directors.

Mr. Gresham Cooke

Is my hon. Friend also aware that I have installed a commercial size letter-box at my house and that it has one great advantage, that one does not have to get up at 7.30 in the morning to receive packets from the postman?

Mr. Thompson

We are very grateful to my hon. Friend.