HC Deb 09 May 1956 vol 552 c104W
15 and 16. Mr. Lewis

asked the Postmaster-General (1) if he is aware that letters are being transmitted from London to Glasgow carrying stake money for betting; and, as this is an illegal practice, whether he will take such action as will prevent this in the future;

(2) on what authority his Department open mail thought to contain money for, and/or, Irish sweepstake tickets; on how many occasions his Department has taken such action during the last 12 months; and why similar action is not taken in respect of bookmaking firms who break the law in a like manner.

Dr. Hill

There is some evidence that letters containing stake money for betting are sent through the post from London to Glasgow. Sealed mail cannot be opened or detained except on the authority of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Home Affairs.