§ 23. Brigadier-General Spearsasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that correspondence and parcels posted in this country for French troops serving in France are not subject to the special rates for correspondence and parcels posted to the British Expeditionary Force; and whether, in order to emphasise Franco-British partnership, he will arrange for this concession to be extended to the relatives resident in this country of soldiers of the French army?
§ Captain WaterhouseI am aware that the position is as stated by my hon. and gallant Friend, and, so far as concerns parcels, I would refer him to the answer which my right hon. Friend gave on 25th October to a question on the same subject by my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Chatham (Captain Plugge). The question of a reduction of the postage rates on letters to French troops had already been brought to my notice and is now under examination.
§ Brigadier-General SpearsWould my hon. and gallant Friend bear in mind that a concession of this kind would be very much appreciated by our Allies?
§ Captain WaterhouseI will bear that in mind, but my hon. and gallant Friend will realise that these things must be done by consultation with the Government concerned.