asked the Postmaster-General whether he intends to make any further contraction of postal collections and deliveries in Greater London.

I have already informed the hon. Member, that it is not the intention to restore the 7·30 p.m. and 9 p.m. collections in London, which were suspended during the recent fuel crisis. It has also been decided not to restore the 7 p.m. delivery which was similarly suspended. In future there will be three deliveries in London, with a final delivery commencing at about 3–3·30 p.m., and a final collection at 6–6.30 p.m. In the area contiguous to London, the 8–8.30 p.m. collection will be withdrawn, and the number of deliveries will be reduced to two.

Will the Postmaster-General give us a reason for the reductions?

The hon. and gallant Member knows there is a shortage of manpower in the country, and we have been asked to make our contribution towards this problem.

I beg to give notice that I shall draw attention to this and other postal deficiencies on the Adjournment on Monday next.