§ 3.5 p.m.
§ LORD CROOKMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they are yet in a position to make a statement as to the legal, etc., position of the Post Office Recorded Delivery service, in the light of the discussion which took place in this House on the occasion of the debate on the Post Office Bill on 1st February, 1961., and, if not, when such a statement may be expected.]
LORD ST. OSWALDMy Lords, the discussion in this House to which, I think, the noble Lord refers took place on March 9. Since then, the Post Office has been in consultation with Government Departments responsible for Statutes and statutory instruments which at present specify use of the registered post for the service of documents and notices by post. There is general agreement that, save in a few exceptional cases, these should be amended to allow use of recorded delivery as an alternative. Departments have been asked to promote their own amendments to statutory instruments and some have already done so. A Bill will be required for the amendment of Statutes and preparatory work is in progress. My right honourable friend the Postmaster General hopes that it will be possible to find an opportunity for legislation in the next Session, and I will keep the noble Lord informed.
§ LORD CROOKMy Lords, I beg to thank the noble Lord for his most helpful Answer.