§ Mr. Winnickasked the Postmaster-General why the Croydon post offices are closing at 4.30 p.m. on Saturdays; what representations he has received about this decision; and what action will be taken in Croydon on Saturday 24th December, Christmas Eve, in view of the likely demand on the post offices by the public.
§ Mr. Edward ShortThe amount of business transacted at Post Offices in Croydon and elsewhere after 4.30 p.m. on Saturday is usually relatively light; our general aim therefore is to close Post Offices not later than 4.30 p.m. to help keep down costs.
Our experience suggests that the need for counter facilities in Croydon in the late afternoon on Saturday, December 24th will be less than on a normal Saturday; we do not therefore propose to keep the Post Offices open after 4.30 p.m.
Representations about the change have been received from the hon. Member for Croydon, North-East (Mr. Weatherill), the hon. Member for Croydon, North -West (Mr. Frederic Harris), the hon. and learned Member for Surrey, East (Mr. Doughty), the London Borough of Croydon and the Croydon Chamber of Commerce to whom the position is being explained.