HC Deb 22 April 1959 vol 604 cc387-8
44. Mr. Remnant

asked the Postmaster-General what steps he takes to safeguard the mails while being carried by British Railways.

Mr. Marples

I am sure my hon. Friend will not expect me to give details of the precautions taken for the safety of mails, which would be of great interest to thieves. We are naturally getting our share of attention in the present crime wave, but I can assure my hon. Friend that, with British Railways, we are constantly reviewing and adapting our security arrangements with a view to deterring and catching the thieves. The number of mailbags lost is today very much less that it was some years ago, but this is not to say that we are satisfied with the position.

Mr. Remnant

Is the Postmaster-General aware of the anxiety and apprehension felt by the public at these continual robberies, and does his assurance, which I take to refer to traffic being conveyed over the railways, apply to other spheres of his activities?

Mr. Marples

It applies to all spheres in the Post Office. Losses to date have been less than they have been for some considerable time. This year, mailbag losses are only 55 per cent. of what they were in 1951–52 and 1952–53. It would be absolutely stupid if I were to give details of the precautions we take and publicise them.

Mr. Hobson

In view of the excellent work of the investigating branch of the Post Office in regard to mailbag robberies some years ago and the very successful results that accrued, would the right hon. Gentleman consider increasing the numbers of the investigating branch?

Mr. Marples

We do not want to increase the numbers of the investigating branch. We want to increase co-operation between the Post Office and the police in general and Scotland Yard in particular, and that is what we are doing.