§ 40. Mr. HURDasked the Prime Minister whether he has now received information that at the International Postal Conference at Madrid a proposal was made that the British Empire should be allowed one vote only; whether he is aware that this proposal, which would have denied to Canada and the other British Dominions the voting power proper to their new national status, was defeated by 43 votes to 22; and what action the British dele gates took upon the question?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Illingworth)A proposal was made by the delegation of the United States, supported by various South American States, to take away all votes at present accorded to Colonies, etc. This would have involved the withdrawal of the votes at present enjoyed by India and the Dominions. The proposal was opposed by the British delegation, and was defeated by 41 votes to 22.