§ Mr. Tom Kingasked the Secretary of State for Industry what percentage of letters was delivered on the next working day when posted first class in each of the years since the two-tier post was introduced; and what percentage was delivered on the next working day in 1950 and 1960, respectively.
§ Mr. Gregor MackenzieI understand from the Post Office that records were not kept before 1964–65 and that since then improvements in sampling methods and the enlargement of the scope of the sample affect the strict comparability of some year-on-year figures. Subject to these qualifications, the information published in the relevant Post Office Reports and Accounts is as follows:
Per cent. delivered next working day after posting Fully paid letters 1964–65 91 First class letters 1968–69 94* 1969–70 93 1970–71 94 1971–72 92 1972–73 92 1973–74 89 * Half-year figures from September 1968, when the two-tier post was introduced.