§ 56. Miss Burtonasked the Minister of Defence if, in view of the urgency of the matter for the people concerned, he is now able to announce a decision concerning similar air parcel postage rates for the Services; and if he will give special consideration to those stationed in combat areas such as Korea.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe Government have carefully considered this matter. They recognise that parcels sent by surface routes to the Far East may take a considerable time in transmission and my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for War is accordingly considering, as a matter of urgency, the introduction of a bulk parcel scheme which will enable relatives and friends of men serving in combat areas to order goods held in stock overseas to be sent to individual members of the Forces. I hope to make an early announcement on this subject. The possibility of introducing an air parcel service to Korea at concessionary rates has been investigated. The Government have decided that such a concession could not be limited to men serving in combat areas and that the cost involved, which would amount to a subsidy of 73s. 6d. on each 4 lb. parcel, sent by air to Korea, would be prohibitive.