HC Deb 16 May 1949 vol 465 cc11-2W
Sir W. Darling

asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that many residents in the United Kingdom complain of thieving from incoming food and other parcels; what records are available as to the number of such complaints; and what action does he propose to take to remedy this matter.

Mr. Wilfred Paling

While I regret the occurrence of some cases of pilferage from incoming parcels, the bulk of such losses is attributable to damage in transit due to faulty packing. No comprehensive record of complaints is maintained centrally, but the hon. Member can be assured that the number of losses, from whatever cause, is very small in comparison with the volume of traffic concerned; and, in every case where there is evidence that theft has occurred, the matter is investigated by specially trained postal officers with a view to tracing and punishing the offenders and of preventing further losses.