HC Deb 03 June 1947 vol 438 cc9-10
23. Major Mott-Radclyffe

asked the Secretary of State for War whether he will consider restoring the concessions in respect of free postage and an issue of duty-free cigarettes to British Forces in Palestine while they are serving under Active Service conditions.

18. Mr. Richard Law

asked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware that, under a new regulation, officers and men serving in Palestine now have to pay postage on letters sent by air mail; and if, in view of the high cost of living and the hardships already being endured, he will reconsider the decision and allow free air mail postage as hitherto.

Mr. J. Freeman

The wartime concession by which troops serving in operational theatres abroad enjoyed free postage of letters by air or surface mail has been modified only to the extent that they are now required to pay 1½d. for letters up to one ounce sent by air. My right hon. Friend does not consider, however, that this should result in financial hardship. As regards the issue of cigarettes in Palestine, there has been no change: the free issue of 50 cigarettes a week is continuing.

Mr. Joynson-Hicks

Does the hon. Gentleman appreciate that the postage which is now being required is a source of great irritation to troops in Palestine, and is it worth it for a mere penny halfpenny per letter? Will he not "go the whole hog" and discontinue the postal charge?

Mr. Freeman

I do not think it is unreasonable. Surface mail is still free, and a penny halfpenny an ounce for air mail is not unreasonable.

Major Mott-Radelyffe

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that troops are now operating in Palestine under conditions that are far worse than in a great many areas during the war?

Mr. Freeman

That is the reason why we have preserved their free issue of cigarettes for them.