HC Deb 26 July 1915 vol 73 c1949
57. Mr. PETO

asked the Postmaster-General whether, in view of the number of officers at the front who are using Colt's automatic pistols, he will arrange that ammunition for these weapons can be sent through the post when addressed to the British Expeditionary Force?

The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Pike Pease)

The transmission of explosives by post is expressly prohibited by the Post Office Act of 1908 (Section 63) and by the International Postal Convention. My right hon. Friend is therefore unable to comply with the hon. Member's request.

Mr. PETO

Does the hon. Gentleman think that the transmission by post of the cartridges in question is in any way more dangerous than the transmission of matches, which are at present allowed?

Mr. PIKE PEASE

It is true that a certain amount of ammunition is sent irregularly by post, but it' is the wish of the War Office that it should be stopped.