§ MR. MORTON (Sutherland)I beg to ask the Postmaster-General whether he 1216 will favourably consider the proposal to reduce the rate of postage between this country and France to 1d. per half-ounce, as an experiment, during the six months which the Anglo-French Exhibition will be open this year; and whether he is aware that the French authorities are favourably inclined to this proposal, and that the extension of postal and telegraphic facilities with foreign peoples will promote good feeling among the nations and greatly benefit trade.
§ MR. SYDNEY BUXTONI have received no communication from the French Government in regard to the question, nor am I aware what may be their views in the matter. I do not see how the proposal made by my hon. friend is feasible, nor that it would constitute any real or useful test of the advantages or otherwise of penny postage between France and England.
§ MR. PIRIE (Aberdeen, N.)Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the French postal authorities in reply to a deputation from the chambers of commerce have expressed themselves in favour of a reduction of the rates?
§ MR. SYDNEY BUXTONI have received no communication from the French Government on the subject, but of course any communication that may come will receive due consideration.