HC Deb 21 May 1958 vol 588 cc1273-4
9. Mr. Gower

asked the Postmaster-General if he will reconsider his decision regarding the specimen business reply envelope in Welsh, submitted by the Welsh National Folk Museum at St. Fagans; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Marples

No, Sir, but as my hon. Friend has already told the House, I am prepared to accept designs incorporating Welsh alongside English.

Mr. Gower

Does my right hon. Friend recall that the Assistant Postmaster-General, dealing with a similar application by another body, gave an assurance in the House that in cases where there were requests for these facilities the Post Office always tried to meet them? Is he also aware that these envelopes are intended solely for the use of Welsh-speaking people in Welsh-speaking parts of Wales? Will he, therefore, look at this point again?

Mr. Marples

I am sorry but I think my hon. Friend is wrong. Whilst they are probably sent by a person who speaks Welsh and received by a person who speaks Welsh, they may be collected, sorted and delivered by someone who may not speak Welsh; so it is necessary to have the English alongside the Welsh.

Mr. G. Thomas

Is the Postmaster-General aware that the Welsh people are not unreasonable on this question? As long as an opportunity is given to those who are keen and anxious to address the envelope in Welsh alongside the English, no difficulty will arise from the overwhelming proportion of the Welsh people.

Mr. Marples

I am very glad to have the hon. Gentleman's assurance that Welsh people are reasonable.