§ Mr. Stokesasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can now state the arrangements proposed with regard to Christmas air-mail to Egypt and the Middle East; and whether he can give his assurance that the delays experienced in 1938 will in no measure be experienced in 1939?
Captain BalfourA report from the operating company on the working of the Empire services during the Christmas season 1938 was asked for early in the year. This is now being examined by1314W my Department and the Post Office in consultation with the operating company. Whilst I am unable to give the complete assurance asked for by the hon. Member in the second part of the question, I can assure him that it is our intention to take all practicable steps within our power, and in the light of present circumstances, to eliminate delays during the next Christmas season.