HC Deb 30 January 1962 vol 652 cc868-9
6. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Postmaster-General if he will state the names of the distinguished British heroes and literati whose centenaries he proposes to celebrate by the issues of special postage stamps, and the principle he will apply to the selection of an appropriate design for each of them.

Miss Pike

We have no such proposals in mind.

Mr. Hughes

While acquitting the hon. Lady for that egregious Answer, does the Postmaster-General realise that in refusing to do what other nations who take a pride in their national achievements do he is guilty of a rather shameful inferiority complex with reference to Britain's achievements? Will he reconsider this matter in the light of Britain's great achievements and do as other nations do?

Miss Pike

I am sure the hon. and learned Gentleman will appreciate that this great nation of ours has many proud achievements, and that one of our great difficulties is that we are so rich in achievements which we could commemorate on stamps that we have to be very careful to look critically at each issue of stamps in any one year. I recognise the hon. and learned Gentleman's concern in this matter. He has asked many Questions in this House and I have had to answer them. I remind him that I am a little in the position of the lady with Raving winds around her blowing… O'er the past too fondly wandering, On the hopeless future pondering. when I am trying to find the sort of things to commemorate in this way.

10. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Postmaster-General what commemorative postage stamps he proposes to issue in 1962.

Miss Pike

We have no proposals at present for the issue of any commemorative postage stamps in 1962.

Mr. Hughes

Why is the hon. Lady working to rule in this matter? Does not she think that there would be a magnificent opportunity of recouping some of the losses which the Post Office has sustained in recent weeks, especially in Scotland, if she were bold and imaginative enough—and generous enough—to reconsider the ban on Robert Burns postage stamps in Scotland? This would add considerably to their value. Even if the Minister's likeness appeared on postage stamps on this occasion we would welcome it.

Miss Pike

The House will appreciate that I gave a very full answer before, and I have no intention of going into this matter again.

Mr. Hughes

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that answer, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter at the earliest opportunity.