HC Deb 20 November 1946 vol 430 cc827-8
11. Mr. Dodds-Parker

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether he is prepared to consider a reduction in air mail charges for letters and samples to the Commonwealth and Empire, to assist, in particular, those concerned with the export trade.

12. Sir Wavell Wakefield

asked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether first-class mail will now be sent by air between Britain and the British Empire without surcharge to enable British publishers to compete with U.S. enterprise.

Mr. Burke

The question of air mail postage is under consideration, and I am not yet in a position to make a statement.

Mr. Dodds-Parker

Is the Assistant Postmaster-General aware that the present rate to Cyprus, for example, works out at just under £4,500 per ton, whereas the charter rate by air is just over £500? Will he not consider a considerable reduction in these air rates?

Mr. Burke

I am aware of that, but if the hon. Member thinks that the Post Office gets the difference, he is quite wrong.

Sir W. Wakefield

When does the Assistant Postmaster-General expect to be able to make the statement to which he has referred?

Mr. Burke

It is rather a complicated matter concerning other Government Departments—[HON. MEMBERS: "Passing the buck again."] It concerns other postal administrations. We are very anxious to make a statement as soon as possible, and we are pressing on with the matter.