HC Deb 24 January 1951 vol 483 cc123-4
26. Wing Commander Bullus

asked the Postmaster-General how many post-free Christmas parcels were sent to members of the Armed Services in Korea and Malaya, respectively, and what was the total cost to the Post Office.

Mr. Ness Edwards

The numbers of postage-free Christmas parcels sent by air to members of the Forces in the Korean operations and Malaya were 14,322 and 2,091, respectively; and the overall cost of the concession was of the order of £37,000, of which £1,000 was borne on Post Office account.

Wing Commander Bullus

Does the Postmaster-General agree that the general public observed the rule and that there was no abuse of this concession?

Mr. Ness Edwards

There was amazingly little.

Mr. Godfrey Nicholson

Has the right hon. Gentleman in mind the making of any further concessions for postage to the troops in Korea, particularly of printed matter?

Mr. Ness Edwards

This is really a matter for the Minister of Defence. The cost is borne on the Ministry of Defence Vote, and perhaps the hon. Gentleman will put the question to my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Nicholson

rose

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Gentleman has now introduced a much wider question. It does not arise out of the Question on the Order Paper. which dealt only with Christmas mail.