§ 17. Mr. DAYasked the Postmaster-General whether he will consider the introduction of a special air mail stamp; what is the estimated additional amount of revenue that would accrue; and are there any special reasons which prevent the use of the same?
§ The POSTMASTER-GENERAL (Major Tryon)The only practical purpose to be served by air mail stamps would be as an indication that a letter intended for transmission by air; it would be impracticable to insist upon excluding the use of ordinary stamps to prepay air postage and in the circumstances this purpose could not be attained. The blue air mail label, which is prescribed by the International Air Mail Convention, and can be obtained free of charge at any Post Office, already provides a clear and satisfactory means of marking such air mail letters as need this indication. I do not anticipate that any appreciable amount of additional revenue would accrue from the sale of air mail stamps.
§ Mr. DAYWill the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say why we are practically the only country in the world that has not an air mail stamp?
§ Major TRYONNo, Sir; that is not the case. For instance, in India they had an air mail stamp and gave it up.
§ Mr. DAYIs it not the fact that all foreign countries, including America, have no air mail stamp and drive great benefit from it?
§ Mr. GARRO-JONESIf they have to put on a blue label, why cannot they put on a blue stamp?
§ Major TRYONFor the obvious reason that it is much more convenient for the general public to use ordinary stamps.