HC Deb 08 May 1918 vol 105 cc2149-50
58. Sir C. KINLOCH COOKE

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that parcels sent by post to the troops in Franc must not exceed in weight 7 lbs., and the parcels sent via the London and South-Western Railway to Southampton, care of the Military Forwarding Officer, will not be accepted unless weighing over 11 lbs., the result being that any parcel between these weights cannot be forwarded unless it is filled with packing to make up the deficiency; and whether, in view of public economy both as regards packing material and shipping space, he will consider the advisability of making some change in these arrangements?

The POSTMASTER GENERAL (Mr. Illingworth)

My right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given on 3rd December last to the hon. Member for Plymouth. There has recently been a noticeable drop in the number of parcels, and I am considering whether the maximum weight limit could now be increased without creating transport difficulties.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the hon. Member now addressing him is the hon. Member for Devonport, and not for Plymouth?