§ 20. Mr. HURDasked the Postmaster-General if, in order to support the agricultural policy of the Government and encourage food production by smallholders and allotment holders, he will consult with agricultural Members of this House with a view to a reconsideration of the postal charges and conditions applicable to agricultural commodities?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir Kingsley Wood)The parcel post is not a remunerative service and, therefore, would not permit of a reduction in rates as suggested by my hon. Friend. Any preferential treatment given to one industry would doubtless lead to claims for similar concessions from other industries to which cheap transport is of importance. I hope, however, that the 17 agricultural community will take further advantage of the combined Post Office and Railway Cash-on-Delivery service. This may in some respects be better adapted to their needs than the parcel post, as it enables them to benefit by the cheap rates offered by the railway companies, to send large consignments at special rates, and to receive payment without delay. I am sending full particulars of this service to my hon. Friend.