Sir GILBERT PARKERasked whether the reduction of postal rates on newspapers and magazines going to Canada has resulted in any financial loss, and, if so, how much?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELIt is estimated that the postage now collected on these packets just covers the cost of handling and conveyance within the United Kingdom; and as Canada provides the sea conveyance the annual cost of the concession to the United Kingdom is not affected by the increase in the number of periodicals sent. The cost is, therefore, the difference between the sum which was received for the periodicals which were previously sent to Canada at the rate of ½d. for every two ounces and the sum which is now received for them at the rate of 1d. per pound, less the cost of sea conveyance which has been transferred from the United Kingdom to Canada. The figure so arrived at is £4,500 a year.