FOREIGN AIR LINES (BRITISH PAYMENTS).

HC Deb 24 July 1939 vol 350 cc1013-4

46. Mr. Day

asked the Postmaster-General the approximate sum paid to foreign air lines for the 12 months ended the last convenient date, giving, separately, the amount paid for the carriage of British mail to South America, to either French or German postal administrations, and for the carriage of British air mail to this country?

Major Tryon

The amount paid for the conveyance of British mails by foreign air lines during the year ended 31st March, 1939, was £183,500. Of this sum, £62,000 was paid to the French Post Office and £51,000 to the German Post Office for the conveyance of British mail to South America. As regards the last part of the question, payment for the carriage of air mail originating abroad and addressed to this country is made by the postal administration of the country of origin.

Mr. Day

Is it intended that in future all first-class mail shall be carried in British planes?

Major Tryon

We shall extend the quantity of British mail carried in British aeroplanes as opportunity offers.