§ 16. Mr. Ridsdaleasked the Postmaster-General how many cases have been brought to his notice recently where the delay in delivering letters and telegrams is causing loss to business and consequently to the export orders.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterThree in the last three months.
§ Mr. RidsdaleIs it really good enough that telegrams or letters of great importance to the country, such as bids of contract, should be lost without anyone assuming either moral responsibility or giving any monetary redress? Is the hon. Gentleman aware that recently one was lost, resulting in a loss of £37,000 in hard currency?
§ Mr. SlaterThe level of complaint has fallen since last year. The hon. Gentleman's remarks in the latter part of his supplementary question are to do with loss and not delay, which does not enter into this question. Talks are still taking place and I will write to the hon. Gentleman.
§ Mr. BryanDoes the Post Office keep a record of known losses of this type for which is responsible but on the other hand not liable?
§ Mr. SlaterWhat we seek to do, whenever there is a complaint from a Member of Parliament, or from anyone else, is to get details onto a form. The complaint is then investigated and answers given to the questions which arise.
§ Mr. RidsdaleIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of this reply, I beg to give notice that I shall seek to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.