§ 47. Mr. Tilneyasked the Minister of Transport whether she will give a general direction to British Railways to arrange for mail trains from London to arrive in the provinces at an hour early enough to enable mail posted the previous night in London to be delivered in the provinces the following morning.
§ Mr. John MorrisNo, Sir. The timing of mail trains is a matter for agreement 1471 between the British Railways Board and the Post Office. I understand that as far as possible mail trains from London are timed to obtain the service mentioned.
§ Mr. TilneyIs the Minister aware that, owing to the late arrival of mail trains in northern cities, particularly in Liverpool, there are continuing postal delays? Is he also aware that the Assistant Postmaster-General has said that he has no responsibility for British Railways? Will the hon. Gentleman, therefore, see that extra mail trains are put on?
§ Mr. MorrisI think that I can help the hon. Gentleman. I understand that there has been some deterioration in the punctuality of some mail trains between London and the North-West. I am given to understand that remedial action has been taken by British Railways, and services are improving.