§ 64. Sir HENRY BUCKINGHAMasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that traders in countries competing with this country in neutral markets are able to despatch by post parcels and boxes which exceed in size and weight the measurements and weight permitted by the British Post Office; 588 That, in consequence of this difference, British traders suffer under a disadvantage; and whether he will take immediate steps to alter the Postal Regulations so that the dimensions and weight of parcels and boxes, which may be sent by post from this country to foreign countries, shall not be less than the dimensions and weight allowed by any foreign country?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Mr. Hartshorn)I am already in communication with the railway and shipping companies on the subject; but I am unable at present to make any more definite pronouncement.
§ Sir H. BUCKINGHAMI think the right hon. Gentleman has given the wrong answer.
§ Mr. HARTSHORNNo. It is necessary to make arrangements, with both the shipping and the railway companies with reference to these matters before we can enter into contracts.
§ Sir H. BUCKINGHAMWill the Postmaster-General answer the definite question which I put as to whether regulations of this kind regarding the size and weight of parcels and boxes in this country are different from the regulations of foreign countries?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNIt is because there is a difference that I am now negotiating with the railway companies to that end.