§ Mr. Shepherdasked the Postmaster-General if he is aware of the deterioration in the parcel post service between Manchester and London, and Manchester and Birmingham, and of the effect of this upon the business community; and what are his plans for restoring the parcel service of the Post Office to its former level of efficiency.
§ Mr. Joseph SlaterI am sorry that parcels between Manchester and London, and Manchester and Birmingham have been delayed on occasions. The delays have been mainly caused by staff shortages and recent heavy postings. The staffing position is improving and as soon as the Christmas pressure period is over we will see what more can be done to speed up the transit of parcel mails.