§ Sir G. BUTLERasked the Postmaster-General how many mails were despatched from Great Britain to Australia and New Zealand, respectively, during the second three months of 1924; how long each of the mails in question took to reach its destination; and whether he can give the corresponding figures for the second three months of 1914?
§ Mr. HARTSHORNDuring the second three months of 1924 there were 10 despatches to Australia; and the time of transit for the mails sent by the contract lines was 26 days. Non-contract ships which were used on three occasions took 29 days. During the corresponding period in 1914 there were 13 despatches; and the scheduled time of transit, was 25 days. Similar figures for New Zealand are: For 1924, despatches 22, time (so far as particulars are yet available) 34 to 41 days (in one case 45); and for 1914, despatches 20, time of transit 33 to 39 days.