asked the Assistant Postmaster-General whether he is aware of the delays that are taking place in the arrival of food parcels in Germany and Austria; and what steps are being taken to expedite their delivery.

Some delay to parcels for overseas destinations has occurred in recent months owing to congestion and dislocation of transport services in this country. There is normally no delay at the present time to parcels for Germany and Austria in the British service.

Can the hon. Gentleman say how long it takes for a parcel to be delivered to Germany and Austria, respectively?

I have not the exact information, but I should say that parcels should reach Austria and Germany within a fortnight.

There have been delays of about three months.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that a parcel despatched immediately the restrictions were removed has not arrived at all?

There was some dislocation and congestion earlier on, but as far as we know it does not exist now.