HC Deb 25 January 1968 vol 757 cc570-1
28. Mr. Robert Cooke

asked the Postmaster-General what is the average time of transmission of special delivery letters for which a charge of 3s. is made.

Mr. Edward Short

I am sorry that the information is not available; but nearly all special delivery letters are delivered on the day of posting or the next working day.

Mr. Cooke

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is cheaper and quicker to send a Post Office messenger over the shorter distances?

Mr. Short

This may well be but I would point out to the hon. Gentleman and everyone else concerned that if the letter does get delivered with the ordinary delivery the sender can claim a refund of the additional fee that he has been charged.

Mr. Stratton Mills

Could not the Minister's extra 22 public relations officers explain to the public how very little benefit there is from this service?

Mr. Short

This really is a silly question. I have pointed out in great detail to the House what these gentlemen are doing. They are all performing excellent and essential services.