§ 25. Mr. Fowlerasked the Postmaster-General why parcels posted in Birmingham on Monday, 6th March for delivery in the area of Wellington, Shropshire, took five days to reach their destinations.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterIn all probability, these parcels were delayed by initial difficulties at British Railways' new depot opened recently at Curzon Street, Birmingham. These difficulties have now been overcome. British Railways have expressed regret for any inconvenience caused.
§ Mr. FowlerI thank my hon. Friend for that reply, but will he assure the House that if this should recur he will take prompt action to raise the matter with British Railways and ensure that parcels arrive the day after they are posted?
§ Mr. SlaterYes, Sir; wherever we receive complaints or protests of this kind, the matter is taken up with British Railways, but one must bear in mind that this was an extensive reorganisation and some teething troubles were expected at the time.
§ Sir J. Langford-HoltIs the hon. Gentleman aware that, in addition to the trouble on the parcels service, there has been a deterioration over recent years in the postal services as a whole to Shrewsbury and to Wellington? Will he look into it, as it seems that the service is becoming slower and slower?
§ Mr. SlaterYes, Sir.