46. Dr. MURRAYasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the character of the steamer communication to the whole of the Western isles, often involving in the Southern islands an acute scarcity of food and other necessaries, and always causing delays and hardships to the travelling public, including soldiers and sailors on leave; that in the Southern islands mails are received only twice a week; and whether the Government will 33 immediately inquire into these matters with a view to the speedy restoration of pre-war conditions with improved boats?
§ Mr. ILLINGWORTHMy right hon. Friend has asked me to answer this question. I am aware that communication with the Western isles is less frequent than it was before the War, and postal facilities have been curtailed in consequence. The question is being kept in view, but I am not in a position to say at present what improvements may be possible.