§ Mr. SANDYSasked the Postmaster-General whether a packet can be sent by parcel post to New Zealand or to Canada at the rate of 1s. per 3 lbs., whereas a 3 lbs. parcel sent to the Cape of Good Hope costs 2s. 3d.; what is the reason for this; and whether steps will be taken to equalise these payments?
§ Mr. HERBERT SAMUELThe rates of postage on parcels as stated by the hon. Member are correct. The postage on parcels charged to the public is made up on the basis of the different amounts payable for the separate sea and land services to the Administrations concerned. The South African Administration has not yet seen its way to accept as it share of the total charge a sum less than 3d. a lb. for the land service and an equal amount for the sea service. The Administrations of Canada and New Zealand accept 6d., 1s., and 1s. 6d., and 4d., 8d., and 1s. respectively for parcels up to and including 3 lbs., 7 lbs., and 11 lbs. The question of reduction has been before the South African Administration so recently that I fear I could not with advantage take up the question of a reduction of the rate at the present moment.