§ 77. Mr. J. Johnsonasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the physical congestion and mental frustration caused in Rugby General Post Office and countless similar offices in early January upon the occasion of the taking out of annual motor licences; and whether he will consider allowing motorists to take out an annual licence at any time during the year as is the practice with the British Broadcasting Corporation's listener's licence.
§ Mr. MarplesI am aware that the ever-increasing number of annual and quarterly licences that are renewed between 17th December to 14th January leads to congestion at post offices, especially at the end of the period. At Rugby the difficulties were unfortunately increased on the last occasion because of a temporary shortage of staff. The second part of the Question is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation.