§ 30. Sir T. Brintonasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he is aware that five letters from Mr. Gerald Williams of Kidderminster dated 14th December, 1967, 18th January, 1969, 30th January, 1969, 10th February, 1969, and 26th February, 1969, 1605 addressed to the Explosives Department remained unanswered until 3rd March, 1969; and what disciplinary steps he is taking to deal with this matter now, and to prevent a recurrence.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesThe first letter had no apparent connection with the others, but I much regret that it was not answered at the time and that there was delay in dealing with the later correspondence. I have already sent an explanation to the hon. Member. My right hon. Friend has given instructions for appropriate action to be taken within his Department.
§ Sir T. BrintonMy constituent has been outrageously treated, even if his letter was not connected with the others. Are we to understand that nothing will be done to mark the discourtesy which the Civil Service has shown to my constituent?
§ Mr. ReesI hope that I have marked the discourtesy by apologising. It is sincerely meant. The administrative slip-up will be dealt with.