§ 19. Mr. Murtonasked the Postmaster-General whether he is satisfied that adequate publicity has been given to his decision that fully paid letters at the 4d. rate now have priority in sorting and delivery over printed papers at the 3d. rate, which latter include birthday and other greetings cards, and that printed papers therefore are subject to delays; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterWe gave large users of the post advance notice of the changes and we displayed notices in Post Office windows. We also issued information to the general Press and to trade and industrial journals. Nevertheless, some of our customers overlook the risk that greetings cards posted at the 3d. rate will not arrive in time and the hon. Member will be glad to know that we intend to give additional publicity to this matter early in the New Year.
§ Mr. MurtonMay I thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply and say how glad I am that further information is to be made available to the general public? Is he aware that there is a serious side to this? Does he realise that hospital appointments with consultants have been missed by up to three days' late delivery when a 3d. stamp has been put on the card?
§ Mr. SlaterI am not aware of this, and if the hon. Gentleman will let me have any particular case, I will have the matter investigated.