HC Deb 07 July 1914 vol 64 cc903-4W
Sir JOHN RANDLES

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that, whilst certain members of the Manchester Wholesale Meat Salesmen's Association have their letters delivered about 6.15 a.m., other members who have joined the association since the arrangements for early delivery were made are refused their letters until the delivery about eight o'clock; and whether, in view of the importance to the consumers of meat in the neighbourhood of Manchester of early supplies being available in the shops, he will reconsider his refusal to allow the advantage of the early delivery to members of this association without any further attempt to charge extra fees, as it is a matter of public convenience and not only that of the meat salesmen?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The arrangement whereby a special delivery of correspondence in advance of the ordinary delivery is made to certain members of the Manchester Wholesale Meat Salesmen's Association at a reduced fee is altogether exceptional, and although I have decided, in view of the fact that the concession has been in force for many years, to continue it exceptionally to those firms now in enjoyment of the privilege, I regret that I am unable either to dispense with or to reduce the prescribed fees in the case of new applicants for the special service.