§ 21. Mr. Jannerasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that the air mail postage charges for letters and cards from Singapore to the United Kingdom are the equivalent of one shilling and twopence and sevenpence per letter and card, respectively, whereas the charges for letters and cards from the United Kingdom to Singapore are one shilling and sixpence, respectively; and if he will take steps to have the first named charges reduced to the same postal rates as paid from the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. Wilfred PalingYes, Sir; the air mail postage rates charged in Singapore are, however, entirely a matter for the Singapore postal administration. The United Kingdom rate of Is. per ½ oz. (postcards 6d.) is one of a limited number 838 of zonal charges designed to simplify rates without sacrifice of financial equilibrium. It does not follow that the countries to which the U.K. ls. rate applies will find that rate an economical proposition in the reverse direction.
§ Mr. JannerIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is dissatisfaction because of the differences betwen these two rates, and will he take steps to see whether he can remedy this state of affairs.
§ Mr. PalingI quite agree that there may be some dissatisfaction because of the difference, and I will look into this matter.