§ 61. Mr. W. R. DUCKWORTHasked the Postmaster-General whether he is yet in a position to state when the scheme for sending all Empire first-class mail by air at the rate of 1½d. per half-ounce will come into operation; and whether satisfactory arrangements have yet been made for the co-operation of Australia in this important scheme?
§ The ASSISTANT POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Sir Walter Womersley)It is hoped to commence the Empire Air Mail scheme by stages next year. As regards the second part of the question negotiations with the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia are proceeding, but it would be premature to make any statement at the present time.
§ Mr. DUCKWORTHWill the hon. Gentleman also consider in the course of the negotiations the great benefits which commerce would derive from a reduced postal charge on small packets of samples of cloth and other fabrics?
§ Sir W. WOMERSLEYThat does not really arise out of the question, but I can tell my hon. Friend that this matter and other matters affecting commerce in this country will be taken into consideration.