§ MR. STEADMAN (Tower Hamlets, Stepney)I beg to ask the Secretary to the Treasury, as representing the Postmaster General, whether, seeing that the gratuitous transport of private consignments of clothing and other articles to the British troops in South Africa does not guarantee delivery to the addressee, he will recommend a reduction in the parcels post rate to the field force of 9d. per lb., which in many cases is prohibitive.
§ THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE TREASURY (Mr. Hanbury,) PrestonI understand that the Post Office has not the power, without fresh legislation, to reduce the rate of postage which it is its duty to collect, but the War Office is considering how far it may be possible, with the concurrence of the Treasury, to do something which would meet the wishes of the hon. Member. As, however, it is necessary that the Cape Post Office should also be consulted, it is not yet possible to announce a decision in the matter.