§ Mr. Pounderasked the Postmaster-General (1) what is the criterion for determining which occasions merit commemoration by the issue of postage stamps;
(2) what occasions in 1965 will be commemorated by the issue of special postage stamps.
§ Mr. BennI have reviewed Post Office policy in regard to special issues of postage stamps. In future the criteria for issuing such stamps will be as follows:—
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- 1. to celebrate events of national and international importance;
- 2. to commemorate important anniversaries;
- 3. to reflect the British contribution to world affairs including the arts and science;
- 4. to extend public patronage to the arts by encouraging the development of minuscule art.
In the general interest the number of special issues must be kept within reasonable bounds and I intend to limit the number to eight issues in the next twelve months each consisting generally of two stamps.
In the preparation of lists for consideration it would be helpful if right hon. and hon. Members and the public would submit suggestions to me as quickly as possible since the decisions for 1965 will have to be reached early in January. At the same time, it would also be helpful to receive the views of those who are interested in stamp design policy generally.