§ 38. Mr. Medlandasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that ranks stationed in Southern Rhodesia are called upon to pay 6d. for each letter they send home by air-mail; and why this expense has been put upon air personnel serving in that area.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerUntil the end of last year members of the Royal Air Force in Southern Rhodesia were able to send their letters to this country free of charge. This was a special concession granted by the Southern Rhodesian Government in 1945. It has now been withdrawn, and the civilian postal rates have, therefore, to be paid.
§ Mr. MedlandWill my right hon. Friend say whether it was withdrawn, at the instigation of the Southern Rhodesian Government?
§ Mr. Noel-BakerYes, Sir. It was granted by the Southern Rhodesian Government, and I think we ought to recognise that it was an act of generosity on their part. They have now decided, as they are free to decide, that it must be brought to an end.