HC Deb 29 June 1967 vol 749 cc736-7
44. Mr. Turton

asked the Postmaster-General what steps he is taking to inform the public of his proposal to impose higher postal charges in 1968 on envelopes which do not conform to a specified shape.

The Postmaster-General (Mr. Edward Short)

A publicity campaign to inform our customers will be launched within the next two or three months.

Mr. Turton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is a great deal of ignorance about the new surcharge that is coming and that it will affect the private sector much more than business people, especially old people who are using old-fashioned stationery?

Mr. Short

I agree. So far our efforts have been directed to informing the trade. Clearly had we had a general publicity campaign before supplies were available, the retail trade would have suffered. This problem is now being overcome, and we shall direct our publicity to the public in general.

Mr. Bryan

Can the right hon. Gentleman tell the House the exact date or give some guidance about when these changes may take place?

Mr. Short

There is no change in the date. It is as it was announced previously.