HC Deb 30 April 1973 vol 855 cc777-8
6. Mr. Judd

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications how many official meetings he has had in 1973 with hon. Members on matters concerning his relationship with the Post Office.

Sir J. Eden

One, on 3rd April 1973.

Mr. Judd

Following that meeting with hon. Members from both sides of the House, will the Minister clarify the attitude of his Department, as distinct from that of the Post Office, towards the commendable proposal that the Post Office might assist in fund-raising for charities by the sale of stamps? In particular, will he make a statement on the attitude of his Department towards the problem surrounding the use of the Queen's head?

Sir J. Eden

I should rather leave that. I found the meeting on 3rd April 1973 of considerable value and I am closely studying the representations that were then made to me.

Mr. Luce

Will my right hon. Friend state clearly why he appears to have ended the experiment, particularly as the vast majority of charities consulted last year by the National Council of Social Service supported it and particularly as the Post Office originally decided that it found the experiment administratively feasible?

Sir J. Eden

I cannot add to my supplementary answer to the hon. Member for Portsmouth, West (Mr. Judd).