§ 10. Sir R. Russellasked the Postmaster-General what plans he has for improving the security of mail bags, especially those containing registered mail, while they are in transit at London Airport.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterThe safe passage of mail through Heathrow Airport is a matter which receives constant attention jointly from the Post Office and the air carriers. I am sure the House would not expect me to divulge any information about either our present security arrangements or our plans for improving them.
§ Sir R. RussellWhile appreciating the last part of the reply, may I ask the Assistant Postmaster-General whether he is aware that there have been a number of thefts, particularly of registered bags, which apparently are separately marked and easy to find? Will he look into that aspect of the problem?
§ Mr. SlaterThe loss of mail is a matter of great concern to my right hon. Friend and myself and we have plans for improving our security arrangements, but I emphasise that none of the losses which have received such wide publicity over the last year or so occurred while the mail was in Post Office custody.