§ 10. Sir A. Knoxasked the Postmaster-General the average time of delivery of letters sent by air-mail to the base of our expeditionary force in the Middle East, and whether it is possible to expedite delivery?
§ The Postmaster-General (Mr. W. S. Morrison)The average time of transmission of the air mails from London to the Base Army Post Office in the Middle East has been five-and-a-half weeks. Arrangements have already been made which will I hope, result in some improvement, and I am considering other expedients in collaboration with the Service Departments.
§ Sir A. KnoxWill the Minister do all he can in view of the importance of the matter to the Middle East?
§ Mr. MorrisonYes, Sir. All the Ministers engaged in this matter are fully alive to its importance.
§ Mr. LipsonIs not my right hon. Friend aware that letters and cables to men serving in the Middle East have not been received by them, whereas their letters to relatives here do arrive?
§ Mr. MorrisonI do not know that that general statement can be supported, but if my hon. Friend has any instances, I shall be glad to look into them.
§ Mr. SimmondsIs it not a fact that this long period of five and a half weeks is largely due to the insufficient number of air liners, and would my right hon. Friend therefore see that no more air liners are taken away from British Airways, which is engaged on these services?