§ MR. HENNIKER HEATON (Canterbury)asked the Postmaster General whether circulars and book packets are prohibited from being posted in unsealed envelopes at the book packet rate in the United Kingdom; and whether he is aware that this privilege is enjoyed by the inhabitants of the Continental countries?
§ *MR. RAIKESMy answer to both the questions of the hon. Member is in the affirmative. I may explain that printed circulars in unsealed envelopes from the Continent are admitted into this country at the book-post rate, in consequence of the provisions of the Postal Union, which makes this course obligatory. So far, however, as regards the Inland Post, it is considered of much importance to maintain a distinction in the outward appearance of letters and book-post matter, in order that the latter may be readily picked out for examination when necessary; but, apart from this, my Predecessors have been advised that an envelope having any inclosure in it is, to all intents and purposes, a letter.