HC Deb 16 October 1969 vol 788 cc574-5
4. Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications whether he is aware that the hon. Member for West Ham, North wrote to him on 10th July concerning delays in first-class postal deliveries and that it took him until 29th July to send a reply which could have been sent within 24 hours; why this delay took place; and when the hon. Member can expect the return of the envelopes as promised in this communication.

Mr. Stonehouse

The reply took about a fortnight, which is not an undue delay as inquiries were required. The envelopes referred to have now been returned.

Mr. Lewis

But the reply referred to only paraphrased the information which I submitted. I was promised the envelopes back and I had to wait until yesterday. Does it take three months for the Postmaster-General to implement a promise? That is almost the period which elapsed.

Mr. Stonehouse

I apologise for delay in returning the envelopes, but the essential query was dealt with within two weeks, which I think was quite good.