HC Deb 22 December 1964 vol 704 cc217-8W
75. Mr. Prior

asked the Postmaster-General if he will take action to improve the parcel post between Lowestoft and the rest of England, particularly in view of the large quantity of kippers sent by post which are failing to arrive in their usual condition of high quality.

Mr. Joseph Slater

I am very sorry that there should have been delay in the delivery of parcels sent from Lowestoft, especially those containing perishable goods like kippers. The delay has been due in large part to shortage of staff in some of the main sorting offices through which the parcels have to pass. We are doing all we can to recruit additional staff and meanwhile to give the best service that is possible in the circumstances.

Mr. Astor

asked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that there are frequent and long delays in the delivery of parcel post in Berkshire; and what steps he is taking to improve the service.

Mr. Joseph Slater

I am sorry that parcels for places in Berkshire have sometimes been delayed in the post. This has been largely due to shortage of staff in some of our main sorting offices through which the parcels have to pass. We are doing all we can to recruit additional staff; and, meanwhile, everything practicable is being done to keep delays to a minimum.